NEWS: Orlando Pirates skipper Innocent Maela upbeat about their chances next season after intense training in Spain

Next season, Pirates are expected to push to win the league title for the first time since 2012 while also chasing glory in the CAF Champions League, MTN8, Carling Knockout and Nedbank Cup.

Maela, who was part of the camp in Spain even ahead of last season, has reflected on how this year’s edition will be crucial in carrying out their objectives.

“This is our second time camping here in Spain. So far, the camp has been demanding, it has been very tough with very extreme training sessions,” Maela said.

“We have been working very hard, pushing ourselves to the limit and of course, we have had the opportunity to test ourselves playing a few matches.

“Today (Wednesday) we played our third match and I have to say it has been very tough. I think the boys will gain a lot from this experience.”

Maela and company have come up against some interesting opposition during their time in the south-western European country.

They played a 2-all draw against English Championship side Plymouth Argyle before stunning La Liga outfit Sevilla by 2-0.

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On Wednesday, Pirates were unfortunate to play a 1-1 stalemate with Granada, who recently got relegated from La Liga. Pirates striker Tshegofatso Mabasa had the ball cleared off the goal line in the dying minutes of the clash.

“We have to take it back home and make sure that we achieve our objectives but so far, so good. The team chemistry is there, we are building every day,” Maela said.

“Pre-season is very intense. We look forward to going home and implementing everything we’ve learned here.”

Pirates play their last match on tour against Al-Qatari giants Al-Sadd on Friday at 19:30, South African time.