A former MC Alger star has suggested that the playing conditions at Orlando Stadium are likely to be better than those experienced in Algeria when his former team faced Orlando Pirates in the CAF Champions League last week.
The second-leg quarter-final between Pirates and MC Alger is set to take place at Orlando Stadium on Wednesday night. The home side head into the return leg with a 1–0 advantage, courtesy of a solitary goal from Mohau Nkota.
Despite the defeat, members of the Algerian side remain confident about turning the tie around, insisting their hopes of qualification for the semi-finals are still very much alive.
Among those optimistic about Mouloudia’s chances is former player Abdennour Krebaza, who also praised the Orlando Stadium pitch, describing it as being of international standard.
Krebaza told AfricaFootUnited: "The chances of qualification remain intact, even though the first-leg result wasn’t positive. In my opinion, Mouloudia played a great match in the first leg, which is why I remain optimistic.
"They really troubled this South African team — they just lacked efficiency. Scoring goals and keeping a clean sheet, that’s the key to qualification."
He added: "We absolutely must score — one goal, or even two — and stay solid at the back to try to destabilise this Orlando Pirates team.
"I believe Mouloudia Algiers have the attacking quality to go toe-to-toe with their opponents. It’s also worth mentioning that the conditions in Johannesburg will be better, with a high-quality pitch and a stadium that meets international standards.
"Of course, we’re up against a top-level team, which is why we need to reduce space and stop them from developing their short-passing game."
Krebaza also emphasised the importance of mental and physical sharpness in such high-stakes encounters: "Physical and mental presence is crucial in this type of match. Game management must be excellent.
"Finally, as a former player and as an Algerian, I obviously hope to see Mouloudia Algiers reach the Champions League semi-finals. My message to the players: you have to believe in it."
