Relebohile Mofokeng and Thalente Mbatha found the net as Orlando Pirates clinched a spot in the CAF Champions League quarterfinals with a 2-1 win against Algeria’s CR Belouizdad at Orlando Stadium on Sunday afternoon.
The opening goal came in the first half during the 20th minute, courtesy of the young striker Mofokeng, who capitalized on a blunder by Belouizdad’s goalkeeper, Moustafa Zeghba. Mofokeng pounced on the loose ball and neatly slotted it into the unguarded net, celebrating with great enthusiasm.
The Pirates were patient in their approach for the 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.
Despite this late goal from Belouizdad, the Buccaneers had several opportunities to extend their lead but were unable to convert those chances.
The Buccaneers demonstrated their dominance during the second half, although they couldn’t achieve a third goal.
This triumph propelled the Buccaneers into the quarterfinals, while Belouizdad’s journey in the Champions League has ended. Pirates currently top the group with 11 points, leading Al Ahly, who they will meet for their final match on Saturday in Cairo.
Both teams have made it to the Last 8, and the team that wins on Saturday will secure the top position in the group.
