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‘After all it’s 11 versus 11,’: Ramoreboli on facing Orlando Pirates

Jwaneng Galaxy head coach Morena Ramoreboli has shared his feelings on facing high-flying Orlando Pirates in the CAF Champions League clash.

Galaxy will host the mighty Buccaneers in the first leg of the second preliminary round on Sunday, 17 September at the National Stadium at 3:00 pm. The Botswana Premier League champions eliminated Uganda’s Vipers SC to reach this stage.

Meanwhile, Pirates knocked out the Comoros outfit Djabal Club to make it to the next round. Apart from starting on the right foot in the continent, the Soweto giants have been impressive in domestic space. 

Ramoreboli, who is a native of South Africa, says it has not been easy to prepare for the Sea Robbers. He admitted they will grant Jose Riveiro’s side the respect they deserve, however, they will also be there to compete.

RAMOREBOLI SAYS IT HASN’T BEEN EASY TO PREPARE FOR PIRATES CLASH

“Orlando Pirates is a big team and everybody is excited to face them,” Ramoreboli told FARPost.

“Personally, I have been following Orlando Pirates even before we knew that we would be facing them. I think the coach [Jose Riveiro] and the technical team have done tremendous work with Orlando Pirates.

“It has not been easy to prepare for them because they’re a big team. We need to give them the respect they deserve. But I think, after all, it’s 11 versus 11, so you just need to plan properly for them.”

‘After all it’s 11 versus 11,’: Ramoreboli on facing Orlando Pirates
Morena Ramoreboli and his technical team

The former Bafana Bafana stand-in coach feels the timing is right for Botswana to welcome Pirates now while the Buccaneers are still on form.

‘PEOPLE ARE HAPPY’

“People are happy, they want to support us and they want to see Orlando Pirates,” he added.

“Fortunately, we are facing Orlando Pirates that is on form. So, everybody wants to go and watch Orlando Pirates. It’s very exciting to see people buying tickets and willing to go to Gaborone to watch Jwaneng Galaxy against Pirates.”

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