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Johannesburg - Ahead of their tough CAF Confederations Cup clash against AC Leopards this weekend, Orlando Pirates defender Happy Jele says the Buccaneers are well aware of the hostile reception they are likely to receive when they land in West Africa.
Pirates and Leopards will lock horns in their opening Group B game at the Dolisie Stadium in Congo, Brazzaville on Saturday.
The two teams last clashed at the same venue in the CAF Champions League in 2013 when the Buccaneers suffered a 1-0 defeat under Roger De Sa’s reign.
Jele believes their 2013 Champions league experience will play a crucial role in overcoming the odds they are likely to encounter.
Despite the Buccaneers’ concerns, “Magents” believes his team-mates will come to the party and do the country proud.
“It’s going to be a tough one there, we are aware of that,” said Jele.
“We know exactly where we are going to play.
“We are going to land at the Dolisie airport and we’ll still travel for about four to five hours to the hotel and for us players it will be very tiring.
“It is very tough for the team and we understand that.
“We are also aware of the hostile situations because we have been there before and we know exactly how we’ll be treated.
“So as players we just have to fully prepare ourselves mentally.
“But we are going there to fight as a team, not only for our pride but for the rest of the country as well.”
The much anticipated clash will commence at 15:00 (SA time).
