Pyramids FC's Croatian coach Krunoslav Jurcic during a press conference. Photo: Pyramids FC's official website.
The Egyptian outfit are gearing up to host the Buccaneers at Cairo’s Air Defense Stadium, aiming to secure their first-ever final berth following last Saturday’s goalless first-leg draw in Johannesburg. Orlando Pirates, meanwhile, are chasing a second continental crown and their first since 1995.
"We are facing a tough match against Orlando Pirates, and I believe that any team reaching the semi-finals will present a challenge because they are one of the top four clubs on the continent," Jurcic said during the pre-match press conference on Thursday.
"I have full confidence in my players. We will deliver a stronger performance in Cairo and capitalise on every opportunity to score against Orlando Pirates," he added.
The Croat emphasised his respect for the South African side but refused to undermine his own team's capabilities.
"We respect the talk about Orlando’s strength in away matches and their victories against Ahly and MC Alger. However, we also have a record of never losing at home, we always win here. That is our strength, and we will leverage it," Jurcic explained.
Jurcic highlighted his squad's peak condition heading into the tie: "We’re in an excellent phase, both technically and physically. Reaching the semi-finals is a proud milestone, but our aim is to win tomorrow, secure a ticket to the final, and continue this remarkable journey. We deserve this moment and to lift the Champions League trophy."
The Croatian tactician provided an update on team readiness, confirming key players are fit: "Ramadan Sobhi, Sodiq Awujoola, and the rest of the squad are fit and eager for this challenge. With better luck, we’d have scored twice and won in Johannesburg."
Closing with a tactical warning, Jurcic stressed: "Tomorrow, we must ruthlessly exploit every chance to score and advance, while avoiding recklessness and leaving gaps for the opposition."
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