Orlando Pirates produced one of their most spirited continental performances in recent memory, mounting a spectacular comeback that ultimately ended in agonizing defeat via a penalty shootout against Congolese side Lupopo in the CAF Champions League second preliminary round.

The first leg CAF Champions League qualifier between Orlando Pirates and FC Saint-Éloi Lupopo has been overshadowed by off-field controversy, with the Congolese club issuing a fiery statement to categorically deny allegations of mistreating their South African representatives.