Happy Jele highlights key challenge facing Orlando Pirates this season

The former captain says balancing domestic and continental commitments will require resilience, depth and mental strength if the club is to enjoy another successful campaign.

After ending a 14-year wait for the Betway Premiership title last season, Pirates now face the difficult task of defending their crown while competing in Africa's elite club competition.

Their previous Champions League campaign ended in disappointment after Congolese outfit FC Saint-Eloi Lupopo overturned a 3-0 first-leg deficit to eliminate them before the group stage, despite the club having reached the semi-finals the season before under Jose Riveiro.

Now under coach Abdeslam Ouaddou, Pirates will be aiming to improve on that showing while building on a memorable domestic season in which they lifted the Betway Premiership, MTN8 and Carling Knockout trophies. However, Jele insists supporters should not pile unnecessary pressure on the team.

"I think for now, let's not put much pressure; we just need to compete on the highest level. I'm happy that Orlando Pirates are playing in the CAF Champions League again, and we just need to perform very well," Jele told FARPost.

The former skipper praised the club's recruitment, saying the new signings have strengthened the squad ahead of a demanding fixture schedule that includes league, cup and continental football.

Jele also highlighted the physical and mental demands of competing across Africa, pointing to extensive travel and quick turnarounds between matches as major challenges. He believes Pirates' players, many of whom have represented Bafana Bafana, possess the experience needed to cope with those conditions.

Looking ahead to the title defence, Jele acknowledged that the champions will have a target on their backs but remains confident the squad has enough quality to compete for the league once again.

Meanwhile, after getting a winning start in the league with a 2-0 victory over Milford FC this past weekend, the Buccaneers will now be preparing to defend their MTN8 Cup title against Durban City at Orlando Amstel Arena on Saturday.