A former Egypt assistant coach has revealed where Orlando Pirates have the edge over their opponents following the draw for the CAF Champions League quarterfinals.
Pirates avoided facing their South African rivals Mamelodi Sundowns, and instead drew MC Alger, with the first leg taking place in Algeria.
"Pirates have a chance. I don't think Algerian football is at its best at the moment," notes Roger De Sa, who was Carlos Quieroz's right-hand man in the Egypt national team.
READ: Pirates DDC star to solve Riveiro's headache
"I believe this is a favourable draw for Pirates. It's a realistic situation, especially since they are playing away first. They can approach the match cautiously, play their game, and return with a result that they can defend at home.
"I think this is a very advantageous draw for Pirates. They've avoided the tougher opponents, and now they have a realistic opportunity. It's up to Pirates to seize it.
"Yes, in the domestic league, Pirates have been somewhat inconsistent, and let's be honest, Sundowns are the favourites for the local league. However, Pirates have a strong chance in the Champions League," he adds.
De Sa believe it is a positive that both Bucs and Downs managed to avoid each other as they compete enough in the local league.
"It's always better to face foreign opposition.
"Honestly, apart from Al Ahly and the Moroccan teams, I believe as a country we have become stronger than most northern African teams at the moment."
Should Jose Riveiro's men progress past the Algerians, they will face either Pyramids or AS FAR in the semifinals.
READ: Downs get lesson on rules after Morena in goal
"Pyramids is a powerful team, they have a lot of financial backing. Although they are still a relatively young club without much history, they are strong and well-structured.
"This situation is somewhat reminiscent of Sundowns 15 or 20 years ago when Patrice Motsepe took over and they were still establishing themselves.
"While they may not have a large fan base, they possess talented players and a solid framework. But they won't have the same crowd support.
"It is never easy to reach this stage of the Champions League; it's highly competitive. However, I would say that Pirates are now the favourites among those eight teams to make it to the final," says the former Bafana Bafana goalkeeper.