Orlando Pirates crash out of CAF Champions League in dramatic shootout with

Orlando Pirates’ CAF Champions League dream ended painfully after a tense penalty shootout loss to Saint Eloi Lupopo of DR Congo.

The South African giants, trailing 3-0 from the first leg, staged a remarkable comeback at home in Johannesburg, winning 3-0 in regular time to force a 3-3 aggregate draw.

The second leg was an emotional rollercoaster. Pirates scored through Nimtajila and Mbhuthuma before Oswin Reagan’s stoppage-time goal sent local fans wild. Both teams finished the match with ten men after red cards were shown, adding intensity to an already fiery contest.

In the decisive penalty shootout, Pirates narrowly fell 5-4, their hopes dashed after a nail-biting finish. The club, with one continental title from 1995, had reached last year’s semifinals but fell short again, leaving its devoted supporters heartbroken.

Despite the disappointment, the Pirates’ resilience and fighting spirit in the second leg will be remembered. Now, the team looks ahead to regroup and pursue future continental glory with renewed passion