Relebohile Mofokeng and Thalente Mbatha on target against Khanyisa Mayo's CR Belouizdad as Orlando Pirates progress to Caf Champions League quarter-finals

Orlando Pirates have advanced to the Caf Champions League quarter-finals following a 2-1 win against CR Belouizdad at the Orlando Stadium on Sunday afternoon.

Bucs' young talent Relebohile Mofokeng put his team in the lead in the 20th minute, scoring from a rebound off Belouizdad goalkeeper Moustapha Zeghba after Tshegofatso Mabasa's attempt.

Jose Riveiro's team headed into the half-time break in front at the Orlando Stadium.

Thalente Mbatha doubled the lead for the Sea Robbers in the 61st minute before Abdelraouf Benguit reduced the deficit for the visitors in the 90th minute.

Although the visitors mounted a strong push towards the end of the game, they could not manage to find the back of the net as Pirates emerged as winners on the day.

The win takes Bucs to the top of the Group C standings - a point ahead of second-placed Al Ahly.

Bafana Bafana international Mbatha, known for his capabilities in scoring from a distance, did what he is known for against Belouizdad.

Apart from registering his name on the scoresheet, Mbatha delivered an excellent performance, ensuring Pirates circulated the ball in the center of the field comfortably. 

Bafana Bafana international Khanyisa Mayo was very sure of himself and sought to defeat Pirates on their home ground; however, things didn't go his way.

The former Cape Town City player must be quite disappointed for not managing to score and assist his team in advancing to the next round.

Pirates will face off against Al Ahly, who have also advanced to the next round of the tournament, on January 18 in their last Group C match.

On the other hand, third-placed Belouizdad, who can no longer advance from this stage, will face bottom-placed Abidjan in Algeria on the same day.