Pyramids FC coach Krunoslav Jurcic is cautious about Orlando Pirates’ near-flawless away record in the Caf Champions League as the two sides prepare for the tournament’s second-leg semi-final on Friday.
After the goalless draw in the first leg in Johannesburg, Pyramids host the Sea Robbers at the June 30 Stadium in Cairo at 20:00.
The money-rich Egyptian outfit and the Soweto giants are expected to trade heavy blows for the spot in the climax of the Champions League.
The clash winner will play the victorious side between Al Ahly and Mamelodi Sundowns.
While confident of overcoming the Soweto giants in the second leg at home, Jurcic admitted their rivals have done well when playing away from home, especially in the North African region.
The Buccaneers travelled to Algeria twice and secured crucial victories against CR Belouizdad and MC Alger this season.
The South Africans defeated Belouizdad 2-1 in the group stages before they claimed a 1-0 win over MC Alger in the quarterfinals, with both matches played in Algiers.
They also went to Egypt and stunned the 12-time African champions, Ahly, during the group stages of the competition.
Their other away fixture in the Champions League was a 1-1 draw against Stade d’Abidjan in Ivory Coast.
“Orlando are a very dangerous team when they play away,” Jurcic said ahead of the second leg.
“They have fast players who allow them to play this kind of football, where they can stay at the back and catch the opponent on counterattacks.
“I know them, I’ve watched all their matches (in the Champions League), and I will prepare accordingly for them.”
With Pyramids being a fairly new club, about six years old, they don’t enjoy the massive support like some of their Egyptian rivals, Ahly and Zamalek.
For the other semifinal between Sundowns and Ahly at the 75,000-seater Cairo International Stadium, the Red Devils are believed to have requested the Sports Ministry to allow them to fill the venue.
This is being done to create an unsettling atmosphere for the touring side and push the home team over the line.
Some have predicted that not having a hostile fanbase against the Sea Robbers at the June 30 Stadium might work in favour of the visitors.
However, Jurcic suggested Pirates might be affected by this as they are used to playing in front of many supporters here in South Africa.
“We have adapted to the situation, maybe it will be a big shock for Orlando.”
