
Relebohile Mofokeng and Thalente Mbatha found the net as Orlando Pirates clinched a spot in the quarterfinals of the CAF Champions League with a 2-1 win against Algeria’s CR Belouizdad at Orlando Stadium this past Sunday afternoon.
The game’s first goal came in the first half at the 20-minute mark, with the young forward Mofokeng capitalizing on an error by Belouizdad’s goalkeeper, Moustafa Zeghba. Mofokeng seized the opportunity, slotting the ball into the vacant net and celebrating his goal with great enthusiasm.
The Pirates showed composure for their second goal, which arrived in the second half when midfielder Mbatha launched a stunning shot from outside the penalty box.
Belouizdad managed to score in the 90th minute, with vice captain Abdelraouf Benguit finding the back of the net.
Although Belouizdad scored late, the Buccaneers had several opportunities to extend their lead but were unable to take advantage of those chances.
The Buccaneers demonstrated their prowess in the second half, yet they fell short of netting a third goal.
This victory propelled the Buccaneers into the quarterfinals, marking the end of the Champions League journey for Belouizdad. The Pirates currently lead the group with 11 points, ahead of Al Ahly, their next opponents, in a crucial match on Saturday in Cairo.
Both teams have secured their spots in the Last 8, and the victor of Saturday’s match will claim the top position in the group.