La Cure Waves head coach Jerome Thomas has expressed his pride in his players despite their CAF Champions League elimination at the hands of Orlando Pirates.
The Mauritius champions were beaten 3-1 by Pirates in the second leg at Orlando Stadium on Friday night, with the Buccaneers progressing to the second preliminary round after a 0-0 draw in the first leg.
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Thomas acknowledged the gulf in quality between the two sides, while praising Pirates for their performance and qualification.
“I want to thank the organisation for the welcome, they put us in good conditions to play this match today, congrats to Pirates for their qualification, they showed they are a big club and stronger than us,” he said after the game.
The La Cure Waves coach was nevertheless proud of the effort from his players, highlighting the significant difference in resources and experience between the two clubs.
“I am proud of players, they gave everything on the pitch, we are amateurs, La Cure Waves and Pirates is a big club, good players who deserve qualification.”
Thomas admitted that the contest proved difficult for his side, with the difference between the two teams evident on the pitch.
“The match as you saw, it was very difficult, you saw that difference between the players, they are levels above,” he added.
Pirates will now turn their attention to the second preliminary round, where they will face Namibian side African Stars.
African Stars produced one of the standout comebacks of the opening round, overturning a 3-1 first-leg defeat to beat Gabonese side Mangasport with a 2-0 home victory to progress on away goals.
Thomas wished Pirates well as they continue their continental campaign, going as far as backing the Buccaneers to challenge for the ultimate prize.
“I wish Pirates advance to the next stage and why not win the African Champions League.”
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