Orlando Pirates vs Al Ahly – Sea Robbers vs The Red Devils, a clash of the titans. The reigning CAF Champions League winners and 12-time champions, Al Ahly, head to South Africa for a highly anticipated clash with Orlando Pirates at the Orlando Stadium on Saturday, 07 December 2024. The Buccaneers, looking to make a mark on the continent, aim to topple the Egyptian giants in a showdown that promises high stakes and thrilling action.
Orlando Pirates vs Al Ahly Match Details
- Fixture: Orlando Pirates vs Al Ahly
- Date: Saturday, 07 December 2024
- Venue: Orlando Stadium, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Kick-off: 15:00 SAST
Previous Head-to-Head
Orlando Pirates and Al Ahly have clashed six times in CAF competitions. The Buccaneers lead the head-to-head with three wins, two draws, and one defeat. Notably, the two sides met in the 2013 CAF Champions League final, with Al Ahly winning 3-1 on aggregate after a 1-1 draw in Johannesburg and a decisive 2-0 victory in Cairo. Pirates last triumphed over Al Ahly in 2015, edging a 4-3 aggregate win in the CAF Confederation Cup.
Recent Form
- Orlando Pirates: W–W–D–W–L
The Buccaneers began their group-stage campaign with a 2-1 away victory over CR Belouizdad. At home, they have been formidable, boasting an unbeaten run in this season’s qualifiers. - Al Ahly: W–W–D–W–D
The Egyptian side comes into the clash following a 4-2 win against Stade d’Abidjan. With a 16-match unbeaten streak in away games, Al Ahly remains a formidable opponent.
Players to Watch
Orlando Pirates
- Mohau Nkota: Scored a brace in the opening match and will be key in breaking down Al Ahly’s defence.
- Patrick Maswanganyi: The attacking midfielder will be key in creating chances and holding the midfield steady.
Al Ahly
- Hussein El Shahat: A versatile attacker capable of creating and scoring crucial goals.
- Kahraba: A dynamic midfielder with the ability to dictate the tempo of the game.
Current Injuries
- Orlando Pirates: Four players unavailable.
- Al Ahly: Emam Ashour returns after suspension, while key defenders are fit for the clash.
Betting Odds
| Outcome | Odds |
|---|---|
| Orlando Pirates Win | 2.80 |
| Draw | 2.90 |
| Al Ahly Win | 2.20 |
| Both Teams to Score: Yes | 1.80 |
| Both Teams to Score: No | 2.00 |
| Over 2.5 Goals | 2.10 |
| Under 2.5 Goals | 1.70 |
| Al Ahly to Win & BTTS Yes | 4.00 |
| Pirates to Win & BTTS Yes | 5.50 |
Betting Tips
- Double Chance: Orlando Pirates or Draw
- Both Teams to Score: Yes
- Over 2.5 Goals: Likely given both teams’ attacking form.
Orlando Pirates vs Al Ahly Prediction Breakdown
Orlando Pirates’ home advantage and attacking prowess could trouble Al Ahly, but the visitors’ defensive solidity and experience may tilt the scales. Expect a close encounter with minimal margins for error. Score predictions: Pirates 2-2 Al Ahly
Conclusion
The encounter promises to be a battle of strategy and endurance, with both teams eager to assert dominance in the group. While Al Ahly brings its legendary pedigree, Orlando Pirates will rely on their home support and tactical acumen to carve out a memorable result.
Related article: Orlando Pirates vs Al Ahly: Al Ahly Unveils Squad for Crucial Clash in CAF Champions League
