Orlando Pirates Secure Semifinal Spot After MC Alger Draw

Orlando Pirates held MC Alger to a goalless draw at the Orlando Stadium on the night of 9 April, sealing their place in the CAF Champions League semifinals. The result, built on their 1-0 away victory on 4 April, was enough to send the Buccaneers through on aggregate.

Despite dominating possession, MC Alger struggled to break down a disciplined Pirates defense. The home side relied on the counterattack, with the pace of Mohau Nkota and Relebohile Mofokeng proving a constant threat.

Deon Hotto nearly gave Pirates an early lead in the 10th minute, but his shot flew just wide. Goalkeeper Sipho Chaine stood tall for the Buccaneers, pulling off a key save against Mohamed Bangoura moments later and shutting down MC Alger’s efforts throughout the match.

Zakaria Naidji posed a threat on the left wing for the Algerians, but Mbekezeli Mbokazi, deployed as an auxiliary center-back, helped keep him quiet. Bangoura missed a promising free kick before halftime, and Chaine closed down another of his chances to ensure the first half ended 0-0.

The visitors continued pressing in the second half, even appealing for a penalty after the ball hit Hotto — but replays confirmed it struck his shoulder. Pirates coach Jose Riveiro made late substitutions that nearly paid off, with Patrick Maswanganyi forcing a save and Tshegofatso Mabasa hitting the post in stoppage time.

In the end, the Buccaneers held on and became the second South African team after Mamelodi Sundowns to book a spot in the Champions League semifinals, where they will face Egypt’s Pyramids FC.