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Cape Town - Despite losing two CAF finals in recent years, defender Ayanda Gcaba says Orlando Pirates are respected by their counterparts on the continent.
In 2013 the Buccaneers lost to Al-Ahly 3-1 in the CAF Champions League final and again recently they were beaten 2-1 on aggregate in the CAF Confederation Cup final by Etoile du Sahel.
Although some locally may perceive them as chockers, Gcaba states that the Sea Robbers are held in high regard in many parts of Africa.
"We left a big mark in Tunisia and most of their supporters were surprised by our mental strength and style of play," Gcaba told Soccer Laduma.
"They even said they couldn't believe how, for a team with a number of young players, we remained calm under so much pressure.
"Teams really love and respect Orlando Pirates on the continent and that's good for South African football.
"Remember this is not the first time this kind of thing has happened, as even teams like Al Ahly, Zamalek and CS Sfaxien, to name just a few, have shown respect for this club."
