Orlando Pirates and Al Ahly played out a goalless draw at a packed Orlando Stadium on Saturday in a highly anticipated CAF Champions League encounter. Despite the fervent support from home fans and the rapid sellout of tickets, the match failed to deliver on goals, leaving both teams to settle for a point each.
Pirates head coach Jose Riveiro made three changes to his starting XI following their recent outings against CR Belouizdad and Stellenbosch.
Deano Van Rooyen, Paseka Mako, and Monnapule Saleng were brought in to replace Thabiso Monyane, Patrick Maswanganyi, and youngster Mohau Nkota, who had impressed with a brace in Algeria.
The opening 15 minutes saw an evenly balanced contest, with both teams struggling to convert possession into clear-cut chances.
Pirates’ first real opportunity came in the 35th minute when Monnapule Saleng’s effort was deflected by an Al Ahly defender and saved by the goalkeeper, leading to a corner. Saleng again came close just before the interval, but his powerful shot sailed wide of the target.
The second half brought more urgency from the hosts. Thalente Mbatha nearly broke the deadlock in the 55th minute with a strike that narrowly missed the mark.
Al Ahly responded with a dangerous counter-attack, but Pirates goalkeeper Sipho Chaine produced a superb save to keep his team in the game.
Al Ahly introduced Percy Tau and Mohamed Moursy in the 62nd minute, injecting fresh energy into their attack.
Pirates, however, nearly paid for a defensive lapse in the 67th minute, but the Egyptian giants failed to capitalize.
Riveiro made attacking changes of his own, bringing on Mohau Nkota and Tshegofatso Mabasa for Deon Hotto and Evidence Makgopa.
Al Ahly had a golden opportunity to snatch a late winner in the 84th minute, but Chaine once again came to Pirates’ rescue with a decisive save.
The result leaves both teams in a tightly contested group, with neither able to gain an upper hand on the night.
Pirates will look to bounce back in their next fixture, while Al Ahly will take confidence from their solid defensive display on the road.
Despite the lack of goals, the match showcased moments of individual brilliance and tactical discipline from two of Africa’s top footballing sides.
