Gritty Orlando Pirates hold off Jwaneng Galaxy to earn a 2-0 victory at Botswana’s National Stadium in crucial CAF Champions League match

In an intense battle on Saturday, Orlando Pirates claimed a significant 2-0 victory against Jwaneng Galaxy in the first leg of the CAF Champions League second preliminary round.

The match took place at the National Stadium in Gaborone, Botswana, and provided the Buccaneers with a strong advantage going into the next stage.

Jwaneng Galaxy had hoped to replicate last season’s stunning upset over Pirates, which saw them knock the South African side out at this same stage.

In that encounter, both teams won their respective home matches 1-0, with Galaxy eventually emerging victorious in the penalty shootout.

A Hard-Fought Battle on Both Sides

The match started with Pirates fielding a new face, Deano van Rooyen, who made his debut in the right-back position after joining from Stellenbosch FC.

In the opening 14 minutes, Monnapule Saleng’s impressive run down the right side created an opportunity for Patrick Maswanganyi.

However, Maswanganyi’s first touch inside the box let him down, squandering the early chance.

Jwaneng Galaxy also pushed forward, creating several chances of their own, but Orlando Pirates’ defense stood firm.

Bafana Bafana international Relebohile Mofokeng had a promising moment for Pirates around the 30-minute mark, but his teammate, Thalente Mbatha, couldn’t finish the job.

The tension was palpable, both on the field and on the benches.

Tempers flared, leading to yellow cards for coaches Morena Ramorebodi and Mandla Ncikazi as the teams headed into the halftime break with Pirates holding a 1-0 lead.

Pirates Hold Off a Strong Galaxy Comeback

Jwaneng Galaxy came back after halftime with renewed energy, determined to find an equalizer.

Despite their efforts, the Buccaneers remained disciplined and organized, making it difficult for the Botswana side to break through.

With 30 minutes left in the match, Orlando Pirates brought on striker Boitumelo Radiopane to replace Tshegofatso Mabasa.

The substitution paid off quickly, as Pirates doubled their lead through a clinical finish from Deon Hotto, following a well-executed pass from Maswanganyi.

Jwaneng Galaxy’s attempts to claw back into the match included a shout for a penalty, but the referee waved play on, denying them a chance to get on the scoresheet.

With just 10 minutes left, the game ended 2-0 in favor of the visiting Buccaneers.

Looking Ahead: Second Leg at Orlando Stadium

Orlando Pirates have put themselves in a strong position to progress to the CAF Champions League group stages with their two-goal cushion.

However, they will need to maintain their momentum in the second leg, set to take place at Orlando Stadium on Saturday, 21 September.

Will the Buccaneers seal their spot, or will Jwaneng Galaxy mount another dramatic comeback? All eyes are on the upcoming fixture.