Mental challenge for Bucs

"WE'VE had it worse in this tournament," said Roger de Sa, the Orlando Pirates coach who leaves with his charges for Tunisia tonight for an African Champions League semifinal clash against Esperance on Saturday.

While De Sa is relishing the club's most significant match in a continental competition since 2006, the coach has warned his players the second leg at the Stade Olympique de Rades Stadium will be a mental challenge.

Esperance, the 2011 Champions League winners, held the Buccaneers to a goalless draw at Orlando Stadium almost two weeks ago.

Yesterday, De Sa backed his troops for at least a score draw against Esperance, which would be enough to see them through to the final.

"For this match we really have to be well prepared psychologically because the home fans won't make it easy on us," he told the club's website. ''We have had it worse in this tournament and I don't think whatever may happen in that match or during our stay in Tunisia will shock the guys."

Pirates will leave for Tunisia via Dubai tonight.