DailySun
Relebohile Mofokeng and Thalente Mbatha netted the goals that enabled Orlando Pirates to secure a spot in the quarterfinals of the CAF Champions League, winning 2-1 against Algeria’s CR Belouizdad at Orlando Stadium on Sunday afternoon.
The first goal was scored in the first half during the 20th minute by the young forward Mofokeng, who capitalized on a blunder by Belouizdad’s goalkeeper, Moustafa Zeghba. Mofokeng intercepted the ball and smoothly slotted it into the vacant net, celebrating his achievement with great enthusiasm.
The Pirates patiently constructed their second goal in the second half, when midfielder Mbatha struck a brilliant shot from outside the penalty area.
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 in the second half, yet a third goal remained elusive.
This triumph propelled the Buccaneers into the quarterfinals, while Belouizdad’s campaign in the Champions League has ended. Pirates currently top the group with 11 points, ahead of Al Ahly, who they are set to face in their final match on Saturday in Cairo.
Both teams have reached the Last 8, and the winner of Saturday’s match will secure the top position in the group.
