Orlando Pirates have successfully navigated their TotalEnergies CAF Champions League quarter-final tie, securing their place in the semi-finals after a tense goalless draw against MC Alger on Wednesday evening in Soweto.
This result, played out in front of a packed Orlando Stadium, saw the Buccaneers advance with a 1-0 aggregate victory, built upon their crucial away goal in Algiers the previous week.
The encounter in Soweto was a fiercely contested affair, with both teams displaying tactical discipline and matching each other across the pitch. Despite the backing of the home faithful, Orlando Pirates’ outgoing coach José Riveiro prioritized their precious away goal advantage, secured by Mohau Nkota’s delicate finish.
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MC Alger came out with aggressive intent from the first whistle, pressing the hosts deep into their own half. However, the Orlando Pirates’ defense stood firm, effectively thwarting the Algerian Ligue 1 league leaders’ early advances and maintaining a solid defensive line.
After the break, the Mighty Buccaneers opted for a more attack minded approach, with reinforcements called upon from the bench. As Pirates grew into the second half, substitute Patrick Maswanganyi come close to extending their lead. After a skillful cut inside, his powerful shot was unfortunately denied by a resolute Abdelatif Ramdan in the MC Alger nets.
In the dying moments of the match, another substitute, Tshegofatso Mabasa, almost sealed the victory for the Buccaneers. Capitalizing on a loose ball, his strike agonizingly cannoned off the woodwork, much to his disappointment and the collective gasp of the home crowd.
Despite their persistent efforts, the visitors from Algeria struggled to find the decisive final touch needed to get on the scoresheet. As the full time whistle blew, Orlando Pirates secured another clean sheet and more importantly, passage to the semi-finals.
The Sowetans will face Egyptian side Pyramids FC in the semi-final of Africa’s premier club competition. The first leg is set for Friday, 18 April 2024 in Johannesburg. Kick off is scheduled for 18h00.