CR Belouizdad vs Orlando Pirates – Orlando Pirates enjoyed a flying start to their CAF Champions League campaign with a 2-1 victory over CR Belouizdad in their Group C opener on Tuesday. The match, played at the 5 July 1962 Stadium in Algeria, saw the Buccaneers side take control early thanks to a stellar performance from debutant Mohau Nkota. The 20-year-old forward scored both goals for Pirates, helping them secure a valuable away win in what was a tense and exciting encounter.
CR Belouizdad vs Orlando Pirates: Early Domination by Pirates
The match got off to an intense start, with both teams seeking to find their rhythm. However, it was Pirates who struck first. In just the 5th minute, Nkota capitalized on a well-placed pass from Relebohile Mofokeng, managing to slip the ball past CR Belouizdad goalkeeper Moustapha Zeghba.
Nkota doubled his tally in the 27th minute with a powerful strike from outside the box, a stunning effort that left Zeghba rooted to the spot. The two goals were a testament to the young forward’s composure and clinical finishing, despite the hostile atmosphere in Algeria.
Belouizdad’s Response
Facing an early setback, CR Belouizdad coach Abdelkader Amrani introduced South Africa’s Khanyisa Mayo in the 34th minute to turn the tide. The substitution proved fruitful as Mayo found the back of the net in the 66th minute, heading in a cross from Abderrahmane Meziane. This marked Mayo’s first goal for Belouizdad, ending a nine-match drought, and gave the home side a glimmer of hope.
Pirates’ Resilience and Nkota’s Performance
Despite the pressure from Belouizdad, Pirates held firm and secured all three points. Nkota, making his Champions League debut, was the clear standout player. His performance under pressure was exemplary, and he deservedly earned the match’s MVP honors for his brace.
Setback for CR Belouizdad
The defeat was a bitter blow for CR Belouizdad, who were hoping for a positive result in front of their passionate home fans. With this loss, they now face the challenge of recovering quickly to avoid falling further behind in Group C.
What’s Next for Both Teams?
Orlando Pirates will return to domestic action with a Premier Soccer League clash against Stellenbosch FC on December 1. They will then turn their focus back to the Champions League with a high-profile match against Al Ahly on December 7.
For CR Belouizdad, they have two domestic fixtures before heading to Stade d’Abidjan on December 7 for their next continental encounter.
With this win, Pirates have set a strong tone for their CAF Champions League campaign, while Belouizdad will need to regroup to bounce back from this disappointing defeat.
Related article: CAFCL Preview: CR Belouizdad vs Orlando Pirates- Predictions, H2H, Betting Tips
