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Johannesburg - Orlando Pirates coach Eric Tinkler says his charges were taught a very good lesson ahead of their CAF Confederation Cup semi-final stage following their embarrassing defeat to Zamalek on Sunday.
The Egyptian giants humbled the Buccaneers with a 4-1 victory in the last Group B game of the continental showpiece at the State Petro Sport Stadium in Cairo.
Despite finishing the group stage as the runners-up, Tinkler believes that their loss came exactly at the right time as they will see it as a wake-up call heading to their semi-finals against Al Ahly.
“I think Zamalek were the better team on the day, let’s be honest about that," said Tinkler.
“Yes, they really taught us a good football lesson but I think it’s a massive wake-up call for us ahead of the semis.
“And if there was a perfect time for us to lose was now.
“And our players must realise the quality of our upcoming opponents (Al Ahly).
“We need to raise ourselves and our game ahead of the two legged clash.”
History favours the Soweto giants over Al Ahly heading to the much anticipated clash and the former Bafana Bafana midfielder is optimistic that his team will go all out to defeat the Pharaohs.
“Without the shadow of doubt, we have a good chance to beat them.
“But it will be important for us to score some goals at home.
“And again we must also make sure that we don’t concede at home.
“Because we need to take something to protect in the return leg away from home.”
