09 Jan 2025

Orapa United faces a monumental task this coming Sunday at Obed Itani Chilume Stadium when they take on Senegal’s USM Alger in the CAF Confederation Cup game.

After a crushing 6-0 defeat in the first leg, the Ostriches need a miracle to advance in Group C. The match promises to be a crucial and highly challenging one for Orapa United, and presents a fascinating dynamic due to the lopsided first leg result.

Playing at Obed Itani Chilume Stadium provides Ostriches with the support of their home crowd and familiarity with the pitch. This can be a significant boost, especially in a high-pressure situation.

Knowing they are at the bottom of the log in Group C, Orapa can focus on a defensive game plan, frustrating Alger's attacks and possibly catching them on the counter.  Alger has nothing to lose. They will likely adopt an extremely attacking formation, throwing caution to the wind in an attempt to score multiple goals.

Their large lead could lead to overconfidence and complacency.  If they underestimate Orapa’s desperation, they could be caught off guard and concede crucial goals.
This could create chances and potentially unsettle Orapa’ s defence.

Even a single goal from Orapa would significantly increase their chances of winning. Scoring early would also add to the psychological pressure on Orapa.

“A tight, organised defence is their best bet,” says former chairperson of Francistown Football Association (FRAFA), Fanyana Fish in an interview.

He explained that maintaining a solid defensive structure and avoiding silly mistakes wold be key to neutralising Algers’ attacking threat.

“Orapa United’s focus should be maintaining defensive solidity and capitalising on any counter-attacking opportunities. 

The team needs an almost miraculous performance to overcome the deficit but their attacking approach will ensure a high-stakes encounter. 

Fish explained that their attacking creativity and efficiency will dictate the pace and outcome of the game. However, he said, both teams need to adapt their game plans based on the flow of the match, adding that Orapa United might need to adjust to contain Alger's attacking flurry, and they might have to change approach if they find themselves falling further behind. ENDS