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Lane: Defeat will end Pirates' CAF Champions League dream

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Orlando Pirates players during the Nedbank Cup last 32 match between All Stars and Orlando Pirates at Bidvest Stadium on February 11, 2023 in Johannesburg, South Africa.
Orlando Pirates players during the Nedbank Cup last 32 match between All Stars and Orlando Pirates at Bidvest Stadium on February 11, 2023 in Johannesburg, South Africa.
Lefty Shivambu/Gallo Images

Club legend Gavin Lane believes defeat to SuperSport United for his former side will mean the end of Orlando Pirates' CAF Champions League hopes.

Pirates sit third, five points behind their opponents for Saturday's DStv Premiership clash.

Defeat to the Buccaneers will open an eight point gap with just seven matches remaining for the remainder of the season.

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"Definitely, they will be out of the race if they lose, these are must-win matches," Lane tells KickOff.

"It's certainly a do-or-die fixture because they can still get glory by coming second in the league and qualifying for Africa.

"I'm sure the coaches at Pirates have drilled it into their minds to go out there and play for the supporters.

"If SuperSport wins on Saturday definitely, they will have the second spot in the bag, the writing will be on the wall.

"But as a Pirates player, you've got to deal with pressure every single moment you walk onto the field.

"Immediately you wear that Pirates badge, you are under pressure from anyone.

"Play with your heart, play with your teammates, play for each other, if someone makes a mistake work harder to get the ball back."

Lane is aware of on-loan SuperSport striker Zakhele Lepasa who might haunt his parent club at Orlando Stadium on Saturday.

"He's a youngster who is on song and scoring goals, with Bradley Grobler in the mix as well. Pirates need to be tight and strong defensively.

"At the same time, you got to play your normal game, you got to concentrate on your game, but obviously, you've got to be aware of them all the time."

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