Bucs shake off early shock to progress in CAF Champions League
Orlando Pirates reached the second preliminary round of the CAF Champions League after a 3-1 second-leg win over La Cure Waves on Saturday.
Abdeslam Ouaddou was forced into several changes, with Gampani Lungu and Tshepang Moremi unavailable through injury and suspension. Kabelo Kgositsile, Neo Rapoo, and Simphiwe Masilela came into the starting XI.
The visitors struck first after six minutes. Jean Ami capitalised on a mix-up involving goalkeeper Sipho Chaine, who misjudged the flight of the ball.
Pirates levelled two minutes later. Kgositsile scored his first goal for the club, turning in a cross from Masilela.
The Soweto side kept pressing, knowing a draw on the day would not be enough.
In the 25th minute, Kamogelo Sebelebele completed the turnaround, combining with Kgositsile before finishing from a tight angle.
Eight minutes before half-time, Yanela Mbuthuma scored Pirates’ third goal, his first in the competition.
After the break, Oswin Appollis was denied by a strong save from Jean Ramdiane.
Ouaddou then introduced Boitumelo Radiopane and Bohlale Ngwato for Mbuthuma and Kgositsile with about 25 minutes left.
Pirates managed the closing stages without adding to their tally, though Radiopane and Cameran Dansin both went close.
The result sends Pirates through. They now sit two ties away from the group stage.