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Ivory CoastOrlando Pirates Host African Stars with Lead in Champions League Tie
Orlando Pirates carry a 1-0 advantage into the second leg of their CAF Champions League clash on Friday.
Advantage Buccaneers
Orlando Pirates return home on Friday, Oct. 23 to face Namibian side African Stars in the second leg of the CAF Champions League second preliminary round. The match kicks off at 8:00 p.m. CAT at the Orlando Amstel Arena.
Orlando Pirates hold a 1-0 lead following the first leg. Tshepang Moremi scored the only goal in that game, which took place in Botswana due to a lack of suitable venues in Namibia.
If the aggregate score is tied after two legs, the away goals rule will decide the winner. Should the sides remain equal, the tie will go directly to a penalty shootout without extra time.
Coach Ouaddou Aims for Continental Success
Head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou is searching for a long run in Africa after a mixed campaign last year. In his first continental tournament with the club, Pirates exited at this same stage against Saint Eloi Lupopo. They won 3-0 at home after a 3-0 away defeat, but lost the penalty shootout.
Ouaddou enjoyed great domestic success last season, lifting the Premiership, the MTN8, and the Carling Knockout trophy. Adding a strong continental performance would make his spell at the club even more memorable.
Pirates enter Friday in strong defensive form. They have kept clean sheets in 10 of their past 12 matches across all competitions.
Team News and Lineup Concerns
Orlando Pirates have a few roster questions ahead of Friday night. Star winger Oswin Appollis sat out the first leg after being stretchered off against TS Galaxy due to fatigue. Ouaddou is optimistic about the player but wants to keep him fresh for the Soweto derby against Kaizer Chiefs on Oct. 31.
Right back Kamogelo Sebelebele is also dealing with an injury issue.
Sipho Chaine is expected to start in goal for Pirates behind defenders Deon Hotto, Nkosinathi Sibisi, Lebone Seema, and Bulelani Sigomoshe. Thapelo Mokobodi and Mthetheleli Mthiyane should hold the midfield, with Tshepang Moremi, Simphiwe Masilela, and Gamphani Lungu supporting striker Evidence Makgopa.
African Stars Challenge
African Stars will look to turn things around behind goalkeeper Mervin Kasetura. Their defense features Liam April, Tjimbinondjo Tjitemisa, Himeekua Ketjijere, and Willy Stephanus.
Edmar Kamatuka, Josef Bonifasius, and Lyema Dopolo are set to run the midfield. Lawrence Doeseb, Rufus Sackie Jr., and Paulus Gideon are expected to lead the attack.
Pirates were the first South African team to win the CAF Champions League back in 1995. Local rivals Mamelodi Sundowns later overtook them by winning titles in 2016 and 2026. Fans can watch Friday match live on SABC.
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