Orlando Pirates put in a resolute performance to secure a narrow 1-0 victory in the first leg of their CAF Champions League quarter-final against MC Alger at the July 5th 1962 Stadium in Algeria on Tuesday night.
Super Eagles defender Olisa Ndah was again missing for the bucs but key players like Mbekezeli Mbokazi and Nkosinathi Sibisi were central to the five-man defensive unit, which was completed by captain Thapelo Xoki.
Deano van Rooyen and Deon Hotto provided support as full-backs, forming a wall that MC Alger’s attacking players struggled to breach.
The main threat for MC Alger came from their young striker, Mohamed Bangoura. The 20-year-old Guinean found himself up against a seasoned defense that kept him in check, demonstrating maturity and discipline that Bangoura wasn’t quite prepared for.
MC Alger vs Orlando Pirates in Algiers. Photo Credit: Imago
In midfield, Makhehlene Makhaula and Thalente Mbatha worked tirelessly, while Kabelo Dlamini linked the play forward to Relebohile Mofokeng.
As the game progressed, the Pirates’ ability to absorb pressure and maintain their shape was evident, especially when Evidence Makgopa adapted his role, contributing defensively in a deeper position than usual.
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The breakthrough came in the 65th minute when substitute Mohau Nkota, who came on for Dlamini in the 60th minute after he was yellow-carded, latched onto a defence-splitting pass from Mofokeng to score the crucial away goal.
Nkota finished off a brilliant team move for Pirates in the CAF Champions league. Photo Credit: Imago
Goalkeeper Sipho Chaine also played a pivotal role, enduring his own share of pressure throughout the match.
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With the advantage heading into the second leg, Orlando Pirates will look to complete the job at Orlando Stadium on April 9, 2025, as they aim to advance to the semi-finals of Africa’s premier club competition.
Other CAF Champions League Quarter-Final Results:
- Al Ahly 1-0 Al Hilal
- Pyramids FC 4-1 AS FAR
