Orlando Pirates of South Africa President Irvin Khoza is optimistic ahead of facing Egypt duo Ahly and Zamalek in the CAF Champions League group stage.

At Tuesday's draw in Cairo, the Cairo foes have been drawn in the same group alongside AC Leopards of Congo and Orlando Pirates.

"If you want to win the championship you have to play the top sides and in this group we have top teams and past champions, including the defending champions Ahly," Khoza was quoted as saying on CAF's official website.

"This group is what l call a test of character. It is not easy but we have a goal and target in this competition. We will see how it goes, but we are optimistic,” he added.

Group A matches will kick off with Zamalek versus Ahly on 19, 20 or 21 July, while the away match will be held on 13, 14 or 15 September.

The Cairo giants were paired together in the same group in 2008 and 2012 and both tournaments were won by Ahly. Last year, they were with TP Mazembe of DR Congo and Ghana's Berekum Chelsea in which Ahly and Mazembe qualified.

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