Ofori itching to represent Pirates in CAFCL

by Staff Reporter

Thursday Jul 13, 2023. 13:01

Orlando Pirates goalkeeper Richard Ofori is chomping at the bit to finally test himself in the CAF Champions League after missing out earlier in his career.

The Ghana international helped former employers Wa All Stars – now called Legon Cities – qualify for Africa’s elite club competition after winning the league back home in 2016.

However, Ofori followed through on his dream to play in South Africa when he accepted an offer from Maritzburg United in July 2017 before making the move to Pirates three years later.

The Buccaneers enjoyed a fine 2022-23 campaign, finishing runners-up to Mamelodi Sundowns in the DStv Premiership, while claiming the MTN 8 and Nedbank Cup titles.

Ofori was instrumental in their first trophy haul, keeping a clean sheet against AmaZulu in the MTN 8 final, although a knee injury brought a knee injury limited him to just 10 top-flight appearances.

The 29-year-old has made a full recovery and is currently in Spain with the rest of Jose Riveiro’s squad on their pre-season tour to prepare for 2023-24, and he cannot wait to make his debut in continental football.

“The CAF Champions League is one of the biggest tournaments we have on the African continent and it’s a dream to play in it,” he said.

“The competition is very good. As Orlando Pirates we are in it to compete and not just there to add numbers. We’re going there to compete, and the other clubs know what Orlando Pirates can offer on a good day.

“Missing the Champions League and the World Cup was very challenging because every player’s dream is to play the biggest tournaments in the world.

“I was very disappointed not to be there. But whenever we were in camp with the team I watched South African football and I always wanted to play in this league.

“I visited the Orlando Pirates training ground and I was impressed with the professionalism. I knew then I wanted to play for this club one day and now here I am.”