Orlando Pirates seize the lead in their quest to reach the CAF Champions League semi-finals, clinching a historic away victory against MC Alger in the first leg of the quarter-finals.
The Pirates earned their spot in the playoffs by topping their group, outshining the tournament’s favorites and 12-time champions, Al Ahly. They underscored their prowess with a 1-0 triumph over the Algerian side, thanks to a second-half strike on Tuesday night.
Though MC Alger dominated possession and crafted numerous chances, the Pirates stood firm, defending with unwavering resolve. Substitute Mohau Nkota entered the fray at the hour mark and swiftly netted the match’s lone goal. The 20-year-old winger bolstered his stellar season tally, now boasting three goals and two assists in six appearances.
Elsewhere, defending champions Al Ahly secure a first-leg victory in their quarter-final clash against Sudan’s Al Hilal, mirroring Pirates’ 1-0 scoreline. Twenty-nine-year-old defender Mohamed Hany struck in the 11th minute, handing the hosts a narrow edge heading into the return leg.
Meanwhile, Mamelodi Sundowns claim a win over Tunisian outfit Esperance on Tuesday afternoon. Peter Shalulile’s second-half goal grants the South African champions a slight advantage, though they face a stern challenge to preserve their 1-0 lead in the second leg.
Pyramids emerge as the night’s standout victors, dismantling FAR Rabat with a commanding 4-1 thrashing. The Egyptian side dazzled their home crowd, positioning themselves firmly on course for the final four of the CAF Champions League.
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