GOAL GFXWith two games remaining in Group C, Orlando Pirates sit at the top of the table, holding a slim one-point lead over Al Ahly and two points over CR Belouizdad.
Their next match against Belouizdad at home on Sunday, 12 January, is a golden opportunity to secure their place in the knockout rounds, but anything less than three points could leave them in a precarious position.
Here, GOAL, looks at why this match is pivotal for the Soweto giants.
BackpageGroup C is shaping up to be one of the tightest contests in this season’s Caf Champions League. Pirates are placed second - two points behind leaders Al Ahly, but the Soweto giants have a game in hand.
The final matchday adds further pressure, as Pirates must travel to face Al Ahly in Cairo, one of the toughest fixtures in African football. Meanwhile, Belouizdad will host ASEC Mimosas, who have struggled throughout the campaign. This dynamic makes a victory against Belouizdad non-negotiable for Pirates if they want to avoid a do-or-die clash in Egypt.
BackpageWhile a draw against Belouizdad would keep Pirates’ qualification hopes alive, it would leave them vulnerable heading into the final group stage match.
A single point would allow Al Ahly or Belouizdad to overtake them with a win on the last day, forcing Pirates to secure a result in Cairo against the reigning champions. Given Al Ahly’s imperious home record in the Champions League, this is a risk the Buccaneers cannot afford to take.
BackpagepixThe match against Belouizdad offers Pirates the luxury of playing in front of their home fans at Orlando Stadium. The support of the Sea Robbers’ faithful could provide the psychological edge needed to overcome the Algerian giants.
Belouizdad have shown resilience throughout the campaign, but have struggled on the road. Furthermore, the Sea Robbers will be confident after they secured a 2-1 on the road over their opponents when the two teams met in November 2024.
CR BelouizdadCR Belouizdad are no pushovers, as their close pursuit of the top two in Group C demonstrates. They boast a solid defensive setup and an ability to hit on the counterattack.
However, their inconsistent away form and lack of clinical finishing have hampered their progress. Pirates will need to exploit these weaknesses while maintaining a tight defensive line to neutralize the visitors’ threats.
BackpageFor Orlando Pirates, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Securing three points against Belouizdad would guarantee their place in the knockout stages and allow them to approach the final match with less pressure.
A failure to win would not only complicate their path to qualification but could also derail the momentum they’ve built throughout the group stage. The Buccaneers must seize this moment to assert their dominance and stay in control of their destiny.
Orlando Pirates