“I know what to expect from Pirates and I think it’s a good way to kick off the tournament,” said the former Pirates mentor. “I am happy that we are facing them instead of Aces, who are an unfamiliar outfit.

“Everyone knows what they can do and I also know what to expect, based on my experience with them. I think we will have an advantage,” said the former Platinum Stars coach.

Da Gama had nothing but praise for the likes of SA internationals Teko Modise and Katlego Mashego, cleverly directing the attention to them and also the pressure.

“They have excellent players in that team and anyone would want the likes of Teko and Mashego in their team. They are a dangerous team and when they at their best no one can stop them. I hope they will not be at their best when they meet,” Da Gama said.

“For us there is the motivation of beating them and of advancing in this tournament, and also I think the teams that start against the bigger teams can go all the way if they beat them.”

“We won’t over-emphasise their strengths and weaknesses; we will be prepared for it. We will understand them but our main concern is our strength and weaknesses. Once we are comfortable with that then I have no doubts,” he said confidently.

“We are without a doubt looking forward to this clash.”