Orlando Pirates secure CAF Champions League group-stage place with 5-0 aggregate win

Orlando Pirates have reached the CAF Champions League group stage for a second successive season after completing a 5-0 aggregate victory over African Stars of Namibia.

The South African side won Friday’s preliminary-round second leg 4-0 at Orlando Amstel Arena, having secured a 1-0 advantage in the first leg in Gaborone, Botswana, last Saturday.

Tshepang Moremi scored the only goal in the opening match, while Thapelo Mokobodi and Evidence Makgopa struck before half-time in Orlando to put Pirates firmly in control.

With strong home support behind them, the Buccaneers made a fast start. Mokobodi opened the scoring before Makgopa doubled the lead, leaving African Stars with a difficult task at the interval.

Pirates added a third within a minute of the restart when substitute Mpho Phadime scored with his first touch. The youngster had replaced Moremi and immediately increased the hosts’ advantage.

Makgopa then completed his return from injury by adding a second goal 12 minutes from time. Deon Hotto provided the assist as Pirates completed a convincing victory and confirmed their place among the competition’s group-stage teams.

The result means Orlando Pirates will be South Africa’s only representatives in the CAF Champions League group stages. They were knocked out in the semi-finals last season, when the competition was won by Mamelodi Sundowns.

Pirates will now turn their attention to the last 16 of the Carling Knockout Cup. They host PSL newcomers Milford FC in Orlando on Tuesday before facing Soweto rivals Kaizer Chiefs in a league fixture at FNB Stadium on October 31.