Orlando Pirates claimed a crucial 1-0 victory over Namibian champions African Stars in the first leg of their CAF Champions League second preliminary round encounter at the Botswana National Stadium on Saturday afternoon.

Head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou acknowledged that his players understood the importance of avoiding complacency, especially after the Buccaneers were eliminated at the same stage of the competition last season by St Eloi Lupopo.

That disappointment came after Pirates had reached the semi-finals the previous season. Nevertheless, Ouaddou enjoyed a successful debut campaign, guiding the Soweto giants to two domestic cup trophies and the league title.

Pirates entered this season's qualifying campaign determined to progress further, while African Stars posed a significant challenge after defeating Gabon's MangaSport in the opening round. The Buccaneers, meanwhile, comfortably progressed past La Cure Waves.

Despite fielding a strong starting lineup, Pirates struggled to break down their determined opponents in the first half. Giamphani Lungu came closest to scoring before the interval, narrowly heading over the crossbar.

The visitors increased their attacking pressure after the break but initially struggled to find a breakthrough. Ouaddou subsequently introduced Evidence Makgopa and Sbangani Zulu, replacing Yanela Mbuthuma and Nkosinathi Sibisi.

The substitutions helped Pirates find the decisive goal, with Tshepang Moremi scoring with approximately 20 minutes remaining.

The victory gives Pirates a narrow advantage ahead of next week's return leg in Soweto. The Buccaneers will be aiming to complete the job at home and secure qualification for the 2026/27 CAF Champions League group stage.

https://www.idiskitimes.co.za/caf-champions-league/moremi-breaks-down-stars-for-pirates/