Caf Champions League! Orlando Pirates fire blanks as Al Ahly remain winless in South Africa after draw in Soweto

Orlando Pirates came into the fixture at Orlando Stadium as favourites as Al Ahly had never won in South Africa.

It was a tough first half for the defending champions who had no attempt as opposed to Bucs who managed to get four with Evidence Makgopa coming close twice.

After the pause, the game opened a little bit with either team trying their shots, but a lack of composure in the danger zone ensured the fans couldn't get something to cheer. Percy Tau was among the players who were introduced by the Egyptian in the 60th minute.

Sipho Chaine pulled a fantastic save in the 84th minute to deny Hussein El Shahat who had been left loose in the 12-yard-area.

Nevertheless, in the end, spoils were shared by the two heavyweights as the game ended 0-0.

The Red Devils remain top of the pool with four points, the same as the Buccaneers who have an inferior goal difference.

Thabiso Sesane once again proved why he is the next big thing in Bafana's defensive department with a composed display.

He was calm on the ball and intercepted some dangerous moves from Al Ahly. A gem for the Buccaneers.

Coach Jose Riveiro had promised a win in this game, but from his lineup, he wanted a draw.

Despite his struggles against Stellenbosch, youngster Mohau Nkota deserved to start, but it was Monnapule Saleng who was given a chance.

The pace we are used to from the wings from Nkota and Relebohile Mofokeng plus the trickery was missing as the latter played in the number 10 role.

The tactics from the Spaniard let down the fans.

Riveiro will now focus on another crucial Caf Champions League fixture against Ivorians Stade d'Abidjan on Saturday, December 14 at the Felix Houphouet-Boigny Stadium.

With the Premier Soccer League game against Golden Arrows, which was initially set for Tuesday, canceled, the Spaniard has some extra days to get his acts right and secure a positive result in West Africa.