After celebrating their thrilling MTN8 victory with a 3-1 win over Stellenbosch FC, Orlando Pirates barely had time to rest before turning their focus to a bigger stage.
Just two days after their triumph, news of their upcoming challenge in the CAF Champions League emerged, making it clear that there’s no time to relax.
CAF Champions League Draw Sets the Stage
On Monday, the CAF Champions League group stage draw took place in Cairo, and it brought exciting but daunting news for the Buccaneers.
Orlando Pirates were placed in Group C, where they will face some of the biggest names in African football.
Among their competitors are Egyptian giants Al Ahly, Algeria’s CR Belouizdad, and the Ivorian side Stade D’Abidjan.
The Pirates shared the news with their fans via X (formerly Twitter), officially marking the next chapter in their season.
MTN8 Triumph: A Night to Remember
Before the Champions League talk began, Orlando Pirates had a night to remember in Durban.
The Moses Mabhida Stadium played host to an exciting MTN8 final on Saturday, where Pirates pulled off a spectacular come-from-behind win against Stellenbosch FC.
After falling behind early, they rallied back to clinch a 3-1 victory, making them the first team to successfully defend the MTN8 title twice, having won it in 2022 and 2023 as well.
The victory showcased the Pirates’ resilience and determination, with the club noting on their website how they overcame an early scare.
Stellenbosch’s Lehlohonolo Mojela opened the scoring in the 14th minute with an acrobatic effort, but that only seemed to ignite the Buccaneers’ fighting spirit.
A Battle on Both Ends
Pirates found themselves on the back foot early on, but they responded with pressure of their own.
Patrick Maswanganyi and Thabiso Monyane tested Stellenbosch keeper Sage Stephens, but it was clear the visitors weren’t going to give up their lead easily.
On the other end, Pirates goalkeeper Sipho Chaine also had his work cut out for him, pulling off a crucial save to stop a low shot from Ibraheem Jabaar, keeping the scoreline close.
With the first half winding down, Pirates finally broke through when Deon Hotto’s free kick was parried by Stephens, only for Monnapule Saleng to pounce on the rebound and level the score just before halftime.
Second-Half Comeback
The second half saw Pirates coming out with even more intent.
They kept up the pressure on Stellenbosch, and despite Stephens’ heroics in goal, the visitors’ defense eventually cracked.
As the game looked to be heading into extra time, a lapse in Stellenbosch’s defense allowed substitute striker Tshegofatso Mabasa to sneak in with a shot during injury time, putting the Buccaneers ahead for the first time.
But Pirates weren’t done yet.
Moments later, Relebohile Mofokeng sealed the deal with a third goal, ensuring Pirates’ victory and their 13th MTN8 title.
It was a thrilling finish to a dramatic game, and the Buccaneers had once again shown their champion pedigree.
What’s Next for the Buccaneers?
With the MTN8 trophy secured, Orlando Pirates now have their sights set on an even bigger prize—the CAF Champions League.
Group C will be no easy challenge, but the Buccaneers have proven their ability to rise to the occasion.
As they prepare to face African football heavyweights, fans will be eagerly watching to see how far they can go on this new adventure.
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