Photo of Chumasande Matiwane

Orlando Pirates frustrated by goalless draw in CAF Champions League opener

1 month By Chumasande Matiwane

Orlando Pirates were held to a goalless draw by Mauritian champions La Cure Waves yesterday afternoon, leaving their CAF Champions League first preliminary-round tie finely balanced ahead of the return leg in Soweto.

The result means neither side gained an advantage heading into the decisive second leg.

Also see: Sundowns clinch their second star at the CAF Champions League 

Pirates, who entered the match as favourites, controlled much of the opening period but struggled to turn their possession and opportunities into goals. Oswin Appollis tested La Cure Waves goalkeeper Jean Ramdiane early in the match, while Boitumelo Radiopane also came close with a long-range effort.

The team continued to push for an opening goal as the first half progressed. The La Cure Waves defended relentlessly and limited Pirates. Their defensive performance secured a historic clean sheet against Pirates and ensured that the Mauritian side left the pitch with everything still to play for.

Also see: Senegal takes AFCON title fight to court after CAF shock decision

Pirates now face decisive home leg

The 0-0 result puts increased importance on the second leg, which will be played in Soweto on Saturday, 12 September 2026. Pirates will now need to win at home to guarantee progression without relying on a penalty shootout.

The winner of the tie will advance to the second preliminary round, where they are scheduled to face either AS Mangasport of Gabon or African Stars of Namibia.

For coach Abdeslam Ouaddou, the challenge will now be finding a way to break down a La Cure Waves side that demonstrated its ability to frustrate Pirates away from home.

With no goals separating the teams after 90 minutes, the second leg promises to be a crucial test for the Soweto giants as they attempt to keep their CAF Champions League ambitions alive.

Also see: WAFCON 2026 Postponed As CAF Moves Tournament To July And August

Featured image: X/@orlandopirates

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