CAF Champions League: Abdeslam Ouaddou’s Orlando Pirates face uphill battle after embarrassing defeat to Saint-Eloi Lupopo in DRC

Lupopo drew first blood through Ramos Kashala, who made no mistake with an early chance. But by the 20th minute, the hosts were already leaning into delay tactics, and goalkeeper Simon Omossola even picked up a yellow for time-wasting. 

Pirates responded with growing intent, launching attacks down both flanks, but Lupopo’s defence held firm. At the break, the home side clung to their 1-0 lead. 

Coach Abdeslam Ouaddou went bold at the break, swapping Masindi Nemtajela and Kamohelo Sebelelele for Oswin Appollis and Thalente Mbatha, fresh legs with a clear mission: unlock the game in the final third. Momentum shifted as the Buccaneers took charge, controlling the pace and pushing hard for a leveller. However, Lupopo had their moments too, continuing to carve out chances and keeping Sipho Chaine busy between the sticks.  

Just when the Buccaneers looked to claw back momentum, Lupopo struck again; a second goal in the 70th minute from Dramane Kambou made the mountain steeper. Deon Hotto eventually found the back of the net, but his effort was ruled out for an off-the-ball foul. Lupopo, undeterred, struck again in the 89th minute, thanks to Jean Benoît Tukumbane to seal a 3-0 win, a commanding result that gives them a firm grip on the tie heading into the return leg in South Africa.

The Buccaneers return to South Africa with little time to regroup, as they face Polokwane City in Premier Soccer League action on Wednesday, 22 October. Just days later, they’ll host Lupopo at Orlando Stadium for the decisive second leg over the weekend.