Orlando Pirates seal CAF Champions League group-stage place with 4-0 win

Orlando Pirates secured their place in the CAF Champions League group stage with a dominant 4-0 victory over African Stars at Orlando Stadium.

The result gave the Soweto club a 5-0 aggregate win after their 1-0 success in Namibia in the first leg last week.

Pirates quickly took control and went ahead in the 17th minute. Thapelo Mokobodi completed a well-worked move to put the hosts in front.

They doubled their advantage shortly before half-time when Simphiwe Masilela released Evidence Makgopa. The striker took the opportunity and finished confidently to make it 2-0.

Makgopa then changed roles after the break, turning provider for Mpho Padime. The midfielder scored his first goal for Orlando Pirates to extend the lead and effectively settle the tie.

There was still time for Makgopa to complete his brace, with the Bafana Bafana forward finding the net again 10 minutes before the end of the match.

The victory means Orlando Pirates will be South Africa’s only representatives in Africa’s premier club competition. Mamelodi Sundowns were eliminated after losing on away goals.