Orlando Pirates have secured a spot in the CAF Champions League semifinals following a goalless draw against MC Alger at Orlando Stadium on Wednesday night. This result, combined with their narrow 1-0 victory in the first leg in Algiers, ensured a 1-0 aggregate win for the Buccaneers.
The match saw MC Alger pressing early, aiming to overturn their deficit. Pirates’ defense, marshaled by captain Tapelo Xoki, remained resolute, with goalkeeper Sipho Chaine making crucial saves to maintain the clean sheet. The Buccaneers’ best opportunity came late in the game when substitute Tshegofatso Mabasa struck the post in injury time.
This marks Orlando Pirates’ first return to the Champions League semifinals since 2013. They are set to face Egyptian side Pyramids FC, who advanced after eliminating Morocco’s AS FAR Rabat. The semifinals promise intense competition, with the other fixture featuring Mamelodi Sundowns against Al Ahly.
