CAF finalists Orlando Pirates vow to avoid another Moroccan mauling

Orlando Pirates aim to dispel the belief that they are easy prey for Moroccan rivals by defeating Renaissance Berkane in the CAF Confederation Cup final in Uyo, Nigeria, on Friday.

The Buccaneers suffered a 5-1 aggregate hammering from Raja Casablanca in the quarter-finals of the second-tier African competition last season.

Having forced a 1-1 draw in South Africa, Raja powered to a four-goal lead at home before taking their foot off the accelerator and sparing the visitors further humiliation.

"There will be no repeat," stressed Pirates Ghana-born goalkeeper Richard Ofori after a training session. "We are going to Nigeria to win the final.

"I did not play against Raja but remember that match. The Moroccans were four goals ahead well before half-time. That was a huge stain on Pirates' proud record in Africa.

"We do not underestimate Berkane, especially after they scored four goals to eliminate TP Mazembe (from the Democratic Republic of Congo) in the semi-finals.

"I appreciate that Mazembe had a player sent off late in the second half - but when last did any club in Africa score four against Mazembe?

"Pirates have had a poor domestic season and the only trophy we can win is the Confederation Cup. Supporters remember only winners and that is why we must succeed."

Pirates lie seventh in a near completed DStv Premiership already won by Mamelodi Sundowns, and made early exits from the two domestic knockout competitions.

The Buccaneers have reserved their best for the Confederation Cup, the African equivalent of the UEFA Europa League, particularly in north Africa, a region where they have often struggled in the past.

Stood out

A 2-0 Group B win over JS Saoura in Algeria stood out, as did a semi-final first-leg victory by the same