Orlando Pirates responded emphatically to their goalless first-leg draw against La Cure Waves, producing a dominant display at Orlando Stadium to beat the Mauritian champions 3–1 and advance to the next stage of the CAF Champions League preliminary rounds.
The Buccaneers entered the second leg under pressure to find their attacking rhythm after being held to a 0–0 draw in Mauritius. Head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou made several changes to his starting lineup, and the tactical adjustments quickly paid dividends as Pirates took control of the contest.
Fast-Paced Start Sets the Tone
The home side was given an early scare when Jean Ami capitalised on a defensive mistake in the sixth minute to put La Cure Waves ahead.
Pirates, however, refused to allow the setback to disrupt their momentum.
Just two minutes later, the hosts were back on level terms. Kabelo Kgositsile marked his debut with an immediate impact, finishing a well-delivered cross from Masilela to make it 1–1.
The equaliser sparked the Buccaneers into life as they began to dictate the tempo and create sustained pressure in the final third.
Sebelebele Puts Pirates Ahead
Pirates completed the turnaround in the 25th minute through Kamogelo Sebelebele.
The attacker combined brilliantly with Kgositsile during a swift attacking move before unleashing a powerful effort from a tight angle that beat the La Cure Waves goalkeeper.
The goal gave the Soweto giants a 2–1 advantage and further shifted the momentum firmly in their favour.
Mbuthuma Adds a Third Before Half-Time
Pirates continued to press for another goal and were rewarded again in the 37th minute.
Yanela Mbuthuma, returning to the starting lineup, found the back of the net to extend the hosts’ advantage to 3–1 heading into the break.
The Buccaneers had turned the game around in spectacular fashion, scoring three times inside the opening 37 minutes after falling behind early.
Pirates March On in Africa
The result completes a convincing turnaround for Orlando Pirates, who overcame the frustration of their first-leg stalemate to secure progression on home soil.
The emphatic victory will also provide a welcome confidence boost for Ouaddou’s side as they continue their continental campaign.
With their place in the next phase secured, Pirates can now shift their attention to the challenges that await deeper in the CAF Champions League, with the Buccaneers determined to make their mark on the African stage.
