African Stars head coach Gerald Güther has made it clear that his team will not walk into Orlando Stadium feeling scared of Orlando Pirates.

The Namibian champions face the Buccaneers in a CAF Champions League match on Friday night. Stars lost the first leg 1-0 last week, so they know they have a tough job ahead.

Güther, who has only been in charge for less than a month, spoke with quiet confidence. “We can’t walk in here and be intimidated by the opponents,” he said. “We do respect them 100 percent, but we can’t show any type of fear. They are an extremely well-organised and trained team.”

He believes his players are ready for the big occasion. “I think it will be a great moment for everyone. The guys are going to be hyped for the Friday night lights. We’re looking forward to it. The guys know what kind of atmosphere is here in this stadium and they are prepared.”

The coach added that the team has worked hard on the training ground. “We trained very hard and worked a lot on our play and how we will set up, so I do fancy our chances. We just have to come out here and leave everything on the field.”

Captain Ronald Ketjijere also spoke with experience. He played against Pirates at the same stage of the competition in 2019 and the two sides drew. “Obviously, we’re aware it won’t be easy,” Ketjijere said. “Myself, I played here against Orlando Pirates in 2019 and we managed to get a draw. So it’s not the first time coming into a situation like this.”

Some of the African Stars players are also national team members. They understand the pressure of big games.

Pirates will enjoy strong home support at Orlando Stadium, but Güther and his players say they will not be pushed around. They plan to show respect, play with confidence, and give everything on the pitch.

The second leg promises to be an interesting contest as the Namibian side looks to cause an upset against one of South Africa’s biggest clubs.

Source: https://x.com/iDiskiTimes/status/2113315438222262467