sportskeeda
Orlando Pirates secured a hard-fought draw, ending 1-1 against Stade Felix Houphouet-Boigny during their CAF Champions League group stage clash in Abidjan on Saturday.
The team displayed dominance in the first half but was unable to capitalize on their chances, a trend that persisted into the second half. Evidence Makgopa had a golden opportunity late in the game, but his shot was blocked by Drissa Bamba’s leg.
This draw places Pirates at the top of Group C with five points, surpassing Al Ahly, who are set to face CR Belouidzad on December 22.
The defending champions, Ahly, are currently engaged in the FIFA Intercontinental Cup taking place in Doha.
For this match, Pirates made one change to their lineup, as Monnapule Saleng was unavailable for undisclosed reasons, allowing Mohau Nkota to take his place on the right flank. This was the same team that held African champions Al Ahly to a 0-0 draw at Orlando Stadium last week.
The first 15 minutes featured Jose Riveiro’s squad firmly in control of the match.
Pirates generated several chances but were unable to score. Youngster Nkota came close to breaking the deadlock in the 30th minute, only for Bamba to make an uncomplicated save.
Another bright prospect, Relebohile Mofokeng, earned a penalty just before halftime, which Makgopa converted to give Pirates the lead.
The second half kicked off with a challenging period for the Buccaneers, as the home side took charge of the game. Abidjan equalized with a stunning goal from Ousmane Meite in the 54th minute.
Pirates had a golden scoring chance in the 57th minute when Makgopa found himself one-on-one with the goalkeeper, but he was unable to extend their lead.
In the 62nd minute, Riveiro made several substitutions, bringing on Kabelo Dlamini, Miguel Viera, and Tshegofatso Mabasa for Paseka Mako, Nkota, and Makgopa. Pirates connected several passes in the opposition’s danger area and created another excellent opportunity, but Deon Hotto’s header went over the bar in the 83rd minute, resulting in a shared outcome.
