Orlando Pirates fail to breach African minnows in CAF Champions League

Orlando Pirates started their CAF Champions League campaign on a frustrating note when they were held to a goalless draw by La Cure Waves from Mauritius on Sunday.

Playing the first leg away against a team of semi-professional footballers, Pirates found the going tough in the first preliminary round tie as they fired blanks, leaving them in a difficult position heading into the second leg.

The match was not televised and based on the social media updates from Pirates, the Buccaneers had few chances which they did not utilise.

Wasted opportunities from Pirates

Pirates’ first opportunity arrived in the 15^th minute when Boitumelo Radiopane unleashed a good shot at goal but it was kept out by La Cure Waves goalkeeper Jean Ramdiane.

The Soweto giants had to wait until the 36^th minute for their next chance and it fell to Radiopane again but the striker failed to connect with a cross delivered from the right flank, leading to a goalless first half.

After the break, Pirates tried to go for the jugular with Deon Hotto drawing a great save from Ramdiane after a well-taken set-piece.

Soweto giants face must-win second leg

The Pirates left-back would have another chance in the 70^th minute but it sailed over. Pirates’ final attempt fell to Yanela Mbuthuma who headed wide from a good cross whipped into the box.

Following the goalless draw, Pirates will have to be wary of conceding an away goal in the second leg at the Orlando Amstel Arena on Saturday, September 12.

Abdeslam Ouaddou’s men have to win to make it to the second preliminary round after the surprise result against the Mauritius side.