Orlando Pirates secured a dramatic 2-1 win in the Pirates vs CR Belouizdad CAF Champions League Group C clash at Orlando Stadium on January 12, 2025. The match was decided by a 92nd-minute goal, capping off an intense encounter that showcased the Buccaneers’ resilience.
Match Summary
The game began with Orlando Pirates asserting control in the opening stages. Relebohile Mofokeng opened the scoring in the 20th minute, capitalizing on a defensive lapse from CR Belouizdad. The young winger latched onto a perfectly weighted pass from Thembinkosi Lorch and calmly slotted the ball past the Belouizdad goalkeeper.
Pirates doubled their advantage in the 61st minute through Thalente Mbatha. A well-coordinated team move saw Deon Hotto deliver a precise cross into the box, which Mbatha converted with a clinical header to extend the hosts’ lead.
CR Belouizdad mounted a late surge and were rewarded in stoppage time when their captain, Abdelraouf Benguit, scored a late goal with the hopes of equalising. Despite the late scare, the Buccaneers held on to claim all three points.
Pirates vs CR Belouzidad Tactical Overview
Orlando Pirates
Pirates’ approach focused on dominating possession and exploiting the wings. Mofokeng and Hotto were pivotal in stretching Belouizdad’s defense, creating space for the midfield to operate. The midfield pairing of Makhehlene Makhaula and Thalenthe Mbatha provided defensive cover while also transitioning effectively into attack.
Jose Riveiro’s decision to make defensive substitutions late in the game ensured that the Buccaneers withstood Belouizdad’s late pressure.
CR Belouizdad
Belouizdad started conservatively, struggling to deal with Pirates’ high pressing. Their attack gained momentum only in the final few minutes, with the substitutes adding pace and creativity. Despite Benguit’s late goal, their overall performance lacked the precision needed to break down Pirates’ disciplined defense.
Key Statistics: Pirates vs CR Belouizdad
- Possession: Pirates 54%, CR Belouizdad 46%.
- Shots on Target: Pirates 6, CR Belouizdad 3.
- Corners: Pirates 5, CR Belouizdad 2.
- Fouls: Pirates 13, CR Belouizdad 10.
Standout Performances
Relebohile Mofokeng (Orlando Pirates)
Mofokeng’s early goal set the tone for Pirates, and his pace and creativity consistently troubled Belouizdad’s defense.
Abdelraouf Benguit (CR Belouizdad)
Benguit’s initiative and late goal kept his side competitive, though it was too little, too late to salvage a result.
Implications and Next Steps
The victory boosts Orlando Pirates’ chances of progressing to the knockout stages of the CAF Champions League. They will look to build on this momentum in their upcoming fixtures. CR Belouizdad, meanwhile, faces mounting pressure as they seek to recover in the group stage.
The thrilling nature of this Pirates vs CR Belouizdad match underscores the competitiveness of Group C, setting the stage for an exciting campaign.upled with a cohesive team effort, underscores the Buccaneers’ potential to advance further in the tournament. As they prepare to face other group opponents, maintaining this level of performance will be crucial for their aspirations.
Also read: CAF Champions League vs. CAF Confederation Cup: Understanding the Differences
