Pirates kept at bay by Madagascan champions Disciples FC in CAF Champions League

Pirates began the match, played on artificial turf, at a sluggish pace. Their first significant attempt came in the 19th minute, but Tshegofatso Mabasa was flagged offside as Disciples successfully executed the offside trap, appearing more at ease with this strategy.

In the 32nd minute, the Buccaneers had a prime opportunity to score when Relebohile Mofokeng dazzled inside the penalty area, evading two defenders, only to miss the target.

Five minutes later, Patrick Maswanganyi threaded a through ball to Monnapule Saleng, but Saleng's near-post shot was easily handled by the goalkeeper.

As the first half neared its end, Saleng created another chance seemingly out of nothing, breaking through on goal, but his shot went wide, leaving the scoreline at 0-0.

The second half saw the Buccaneers push aggressively from the outset in search of a crucial away goal, but the Disciples remained compact and resolute.

Disciples registered their first shot on target in the 52nd minute, but Pirates' goalkeeper Sipho Chaine dealt with it confidently.

The team from Madagascar grew more comfortable as the game progressed, and in the 67th minute, they had a golden opportunity, but a header was directed straight at Chaine, who saved it comfortably.

As the match approached the 69th minute, Pirates intensified their pressure, stringing together smooth passes that culminated in a chance for Tshegofatso Mabasa, only for his effort to be denied by the crossbar.

Despite two late chances for Disciples, the Sea Robbers snuffed out two late chances from the hosts and come away with a point away from home, leaving everything to play for in the second leg at Orlando Stadium in South Africa on Friday.

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