Innocent Mayoyo, a historical figure for Orlando Pirates, emphasizes that performing well in the CAF Champions League is crucial for narrowing the gap between the Buccaneers and Mamelodi Sundowns.
The Soweto giants are set to face MC Alger in Algeria in the first leg of the Champions League quarter-final on Tuesday.
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Mayoyo believes that the club's international players, such as Patrick Maswanganyi, Deon Hotto, Thalente Mbatha, Relebohile Mofokeng, and Evidence Makgopa, must step up to carry the team through the final eight.
"What's happening with Pirates now is still part of the process of bridging the gap between them and Sundowns," Mayoyo tells KickOff.
"For Pirates to reach Sundowns' level, they need to embark on this journey in continental football. This is still a process, and to expedite it, Pirates must perform well."
He added, "However, not succeeding in this season's Champions League doesn't mean they are out of the process. They should not be too hard on themselves. Look at Sundowns; despite their resources, when was the last time they won the Champions League?"
Mayoyo also pointed out that consistency in reaching the later stages of the competition is essential.
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"I hope we perform well given our current form; these results are a reflection of Pirates preparing well in pre-season over the past two years. We are now ready to start competing for continental honors. In this situation, you need experienced players and should not rely too heavily on the younger ones."
"The international players need to perform well in Algeria tomorrow. Additionally, in terms of maturity, Relebohile Mofokeng is also one of our trump cards."