CAF Confederation Cup: AC Leopards Stumble at Home to Orlando Pirates
AC Leopards suffered a disappointing start to their CAF Confederation Cup group stage campaign after falling to a 1-0 home defeat against South Africa’s Orlando Pirates on Saturday.
The Congolese side, playing at the Denis Sassou Nguesso Stadium in Dolisie, were unable to impose themselves and were ultimately undone by a single goal from Orlando Pirates defender Happy Jele. The result marks a frustrating setback for the Leopards, who had high hopes of making an early statement in Group B.
Despite enjoying home advantage and strong local support, AC Leopards struggled to find rhythm throughout the match. The visitors, on the other hand, displayed greater organisation and discipline, taking their opportunity in the second half when Jele converted what proved to be the decisive goal.
The defeat leaves AC Leopards with work to do as they look to stay in contention for a semi-final berth. With just six group games to play, dropped points at home could prove costly in the long run.
The result also highlights the growing confidence of Orlando Pirates on the continental stage. The South African club, former CAF Champions League finalists, managed the game well and secured a crucial away victory that sets them up strongly in what is expected to be a tightly contested group.
AC Leopards will now look to regroup quickly before their next group match, knowing that any further slip-ups could jeopardise their campaign.
