Pyramids FC's Croatian coach Krunoslav Jurcic during the CAF Champions League press conference. Photo: CAFonline.
The Egyptian rising powerhouse, established just six years ago, face a stern test against South Africa’s Orlando Pirates, a seasoned continental heavyweight, in Johannesburg on Saturday, with a coveted final berth on the line.
Jurcic hailed the semi-final qualification as a landmark achievement for the club, stating, “Being among Africa’s elite four is a testament to our rapid growth. We’ll savor this moment, but our hunger remains. This team is ready to fight for more.”
The coach conceded Orlando’s edge in experience, noting their history of continental finals, but insisted his team would not be overawed. "They’ve walked this path before; for us, it’s new. But that doesn’t mean we lack belief.
"We’ve analyzed their strengths thoroughly. They’re strong at home, backed by passionate fans, but we’re ready to counter their threats with our identity," he said.
The 57-year-old tactician ruled out tactical overhauls, emphasizing faith in the system that propelled Pyramids this far. "We won’t reinvent ourselves for this match. Our system has brought us here, and we trust it to take us further."
He also highlighted the squad’s fitness and morale, despite a grueling schedule, saying, "Every player is prepared to leave everything on the pitch."
The clash extends the burgeoning rivalry between Egyptian and South African clubs in CAF competitions, a dynamic Jurcic acknowledged. “These fixtures carry unique intensity, but composure will decide it. Emotion mustn’t cloud focus, we play smart to achieve our objective,” he stressed.
Pyramids need only a draw to progress, but Jurcic’s message was unequivocal: “We’re here for victory. Orlando Pirates command respect, but our mission is clear: secure our place in the final.”
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