CAF Champions League: Pirates Beat Belouizdad 2-1

Orlando Pirates kicked off their CAF Champions League group stage campaign with a 2-1 victory over CR Belouizdad in Algiers, Algeria, on Tuesday night, 26 November.

Playing at the Stade du 5 Juillet 1962, Mohau Nkota made a notable debut, scoring both goals for the Buccaneers within the opening 27 minutes.

The 20-year-old midfielder netted the first goal just five minutes in, finishing a quick counter-attack, before doubling the lead with a stunning long-range strike midway through the 27th minute.

Despite pressure from the home side – which included a goal from Khanyisa Mayo in the 66th minute – the visitors maintained their composure at the back. Pirates’ coach, Jose Riveiro, also made strategic substitutions to bolster their defence as they sought to secure maximum points.

Come the final whistle, the Bucs triumphed over Belouizdad with a 2-1 win. This is an especially promising start for the Soweto giants, as they have qualified for the group stage for the first time in five years.

Orlando Pirates are now sitting in second place with three points on the CAF Champions League log. Meanwhile, CR Belouizdad currently occupy third place with zero points.

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