Ramovic Breaks Down How Pirates Can Beat MC Alger

CR Belouizdad coach Sead Ramovic has given a breakdown on how Orlando Pirates can defeat MC Alger in the quarter-finals of the CAF Champions League on Tuesday.

Ramovic, who moved to the Algerian league in February 2025, has faced Alger on two occasions in his tenure in Algeria and is yet to lose to the side at the top of the League 1 table.

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The former TS Galaxy and Yanga coach spoke to iDiski Times senior writer Matshelane Mamabolo in edition 193 of the news where he listed at least five things Jose Riveiro’s men can exploit from Alger but also emphasised Pirates should be on high alert especially when playing in Algeria.

“MC Alger approaches home and away matches with two contrasting styles,” Ramovic told iDiski Times.

“Away from home, they sit deep, waste time and rely on long balls to win second balls and hit on the counter. At home, they try to be aggressive and press high but lack compactness, mixing possession with direct play. Pirates must exploit their weaknesses in both scenarios to gain control over the tie.”

Ramovic then gave more detailed instructions on how Pirates could deal with Alger away from home.

1. “1. Play through their press with speed & intelligence:

• “They press aggressively but are not compact, leaving spaces in midfield and defensive lines. Quick, precise passing will expose these gaps. Midfield rotations and one-touch combinations will allow them to bypass their first press and attack their exposed defence.”

1. “2. Force them into mistakes:

• Their mixed approach between possession and long balls means they lack consistency when building up.
• Press with intensity in key areas, forcing turnovers and capitalising on mistakes high up the pitch.”

1. “3. Exploit the space behind their defence:

• ” Their aggressive pressing leaves their backline exposed. Direct runs in behind and quick forward transitions will be key to breaking their defensive line.
• Smart positioning of attackers will force them into difficult defensive situations.

1. “4. Balance possession with directness:

• “While controlling the game, it is a must recognising moments to be direct and catch them off guard.
• Mixing short, controlled build-up with quick switches of play will keep them unsettled.

1. “5. Be ruthless in front of goal:

• “Since they play more open at home, they must take advantage of defensive gaps and be clinical in finishing our chances. Every opportunity must be capitalised on, as home games tend to be more high-scoring.
  By sticking to the tactical principles and adapting intelligently, Pirates can dominate both legs and impose their authority over the game.”