Orlando Pirates overturn early scare to reach CAF Champions League second round

Orlando Pirates recovered from an early setback to beat La Cure Waves 3-1 on Saturday afternoon and progress to the second preliminary round of the CAF Champions League.

The Buccaneers fell behind after only six minutes when Jean Ami capitalised on confusion involving goalkeeper Sipho Chaine, who misjudged the flight of the ball before the Waves forward finished.

Pirates responded almost immediately, drawing level two minutes later. Kabelo Kgositsile opened his account for the club by turning Masilela’s cross into the net.

The result was crucial for the Soweto side, who knew a score draw would end their continental campaign. They completed the turnaround in the 25th minute when Kamogelo Sebelebele combined with Kgositsile and fired home from a tight angle.

Orlando Pirates then strengthened their advantage eight minutes before half-time. Yanela Mbuthuma, restored to the starting line-up, marked his return with his first goal in the competition.

The hosts continued to control the match after the interval, with Oswin Appollis attempting to add a fourth. His powerful effort was stopped by an excellent save from La Cure Waves goalkeeper Jean Ramdiane.

With Pirates holding a comfortable lead, coach Abdeslam Ouaddou made changes for the final 25 minutes. Boitumelo Radiopane and Bohlale Ngwato replaced Mbuthuma and Kgositsile.

The Buccaneers saw out the closing stages without conceding again, although Radiopane and Cameran Dansin both came close to extending the lead.

Ouaddou had been forced to alter his side because of injuries and suspensions, with Gampani Lungu and Tshepang Moremi unavailable. Kabelo Kgositsile, Neo Rapoo and Yanela Mbuthuma were brought into the starting line-up.

The victory puts Orlando Pirates into the next round and leaves them two matches away from the group stage.

Orlando Pirates starting XI: 24. Sipho Chaine, 37. Zulu, 6. Seema, 19. Neo Rapoo, 36. Kamogelo Sebelebele, 33. Mokobodi, 29. Mthiyane, 39. Masilela, 34. Kabelo Kgositsile, 12. Oswin Appollis, 29. Yanela Mbuthuma.

Substitutes: 32. Dladla, 5. Sibisi, 3. Ndaba, 13. Derbyshire, 28. Cameran Dansin, 20. Selepe, 15. Nemtajela, 40. Bohlale Ngwato, 25. Boitumelo Radiopane.