Orlando Pirates exit CAF Champions League via penalties against Jwaneng Galaxy

By SABC Sport
29th September 2023

Orlando Pirates' hopes in the CAF Champions League were dashed as they were eliminated by Jwaneng Galaxy, losing 5-4 in a penalty shootout after the tie ended 1-1 on aggregate.

The stage was set at Esgodini, with Jwaneng carrying a slender 1-0 lead from the initial encounter in Botswana.

The match was evenly balanced, with Jwaneng keenly aware that Pirates wouldn't surrender their quest for a place in the group stages without a fierce struggle.

The early stages witnessed a contentious offside decision that could have doubled Jwaneng's lead, but with so much at stake, Pirates fought tenaciously on their home turf.

Ramoboreli's side exhibited unwavering resilience, frustrating Pirates' attempts to break down their resolute defence and occasionally threatening on the counter-attack.

Wendell Rudath, the Namibian forward, came close to breaking the deadlock, but it was Evidence Makgopa, the unexpected hero, who scored the crucial goal, replacing Zakhele Lepasa in the second half. His shot deflected past Jwaneng's goalkeeper Goitseone Phoko, levelling the aggregate score.

Pirates continued to press for a winner, with Karim Kimvuidi and Patrick Maswanganyi displaying their creativity, but Jwaneng's defence held firm until the final whistle, forcing the match to be decided by penalties.

Unfortunately for Pirates, Relebohile Mofokeng missed their fourth penalty, while Jwaneng maintained a perfect record, securing their passage to the next round despite substitute Richard Ofori's best efforts in goal.