Orlando Pirates have completed the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League semi-final line-up after holding MC Alger to a goalless draw on Wednesday evening in Soweto to advance 1-0 on aggregate, following their victory in Algiers last week.
A packed and highly vocal Orlando Stadium was witness to a hard-fought battle between the two sides who matched each other in all departments throughout highly tactical encounter.
Despite playing at home, Pirates coach Jose Riveiro opted for a more cautious approach to the tie with the aim of protecting his slender lead thanks to Mohau Nkota’s away goal in Algiers.
As expected, the visitors pressed the former champions into their own half from the opening whistle, but with a strong line off defense marshalled by captain, Tapelo Xoki the buccaneers did well to keep their opponents at bay.
Pirates took on a more offensive approach after the break, with the introduction of fresh legs that injected much needed fire power up front.
Substitute, Patrick Maswanganyi was unlucky not to see his shot beat the keeper after doing well to cut inside and unleash a powerful effort that was well saved by Abdelatif Ramdan.
Another substitute, Tshegofatso Mabasa almost put matters beyond reach in the 90th minute after pouncing on a loose ball to send a strike that came off the frame of the goal to his disappointment.
The visitors continued to probe but lacked the final touch that could break the Pirates defense.
The result sees the 1995 champions complete the semi-finals line up and set up a clash with Egyptian side, Pyramids FC.
Source: CAF
www.sports24ghana.com
