In a thrilling conclusion to their group-stage campaign, Orlando Pirates managed to defeat reigning CAF Champions League champions Al Ahly 2-1 at Cairo International Stadium on Saturday.
This victory came in their final Group C match and was an impressive display, as both teams had already secured their places in the knockout rounds.
However, the top spot in the group was still up for grabs.
Pirates End Group Stage Unbeaten
This win not only handed the Buccaneers their second consecutive away victory in North Africa but also ensured that they finished the group stage unbeaten with a solid 14 points.
They edged out the Egyptians, who had been the favorites at the start of the competition.
The match was a critical one, with both teams eager to secure first place in the group.
Defensive Resilience Under Pressure
Al Ahly came out strong in the first half, creating several opportunities that tested Orlando Pirates’ defense.
Nkosinathi Sibisi and Thabiso Sesane, along with goalkeeper Sipho Chaine, were kept busy throughout, as the hosts piled on the pressure.
Emam Ashour and Wessam Abou Ali had the best chances to score, but Chaine was in top form, making some crucial saves to keep the game scoreless at halftime.
Pirates Strike First, Al Ahly Respond
The second half began with Orlando Pirates taking the initiative.
Just four minutes after the restart, they came close to scoring, with Deon Hotto’s header going wide.
However, the breakthrough came soon after, as Relebohile Mofokeng pounced on a defensive mistake to put the visitors 1-0 up.
Al Ahly responded quickly, and in the 69th minute, Hussein El Shahat equalized with a cool chip over Chaine after a defensive error.
The Red Devils pressed for the lead, but Chaine was once again called into action, denying Abou Ali’s efforts to give his side a crucial lead.
Pirates Seize the Lead Again
In what was a dramatic turn of events, Orlando Pirates restored their lead with a well-executed counter-attack.
Kabelo Dlamini, who had just come on, crossed into the box where Tshegofatso Mabasa’s header struck the crossbar.
The rebound fell to Gilberto, who calmly headed in to make it 2-1, scoring his first competitive goal for the club.
Last-Minute Drama and Pirates Secure Victory
Despite a late surge from Al Ahly, who were desperately seeking an equalizer, Orlando Pirates held firm.
Abou Ali’s shot in the 88th minute narrowly missed, and a last-minute volley from Rami Rabia was ruled offside, sealing the win for Pirates.
The final whistle blew shortly after, and the Bucs celebrated a famous victory in Cairo.
Will Orlando Pirates Lift the CAF Champions League Trophy?
As Orlando Pirates prepare for the knockout rounds, many are wondering whether they can go all the way and claim the CAF Champions League title.
With such a resilient performance, the Buccaneers have proven they are a force to be reckoned with.
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