Orlando Pirates had to settle for a 1-1 draw against Stade d’Abidjan at the Stade Félix Houphouët-Boigny on Saturday, December 14, 2024, as their campaign in the CAF Champions League Group C continues to progress. Having entered the match with four points from their previous games, the Buccaneers were eager to secure all three points and establish their dominance within the group.
The match, held at the iconic venue where Pirates claimed the CAF Champions League title back in 1995, started with the South African side putting pressure on their Ivorian opponents. Early attempts to break the deadlock were evident as Relebohile Mofokeng and Evidence Makgopa came close but failed to convert their chances.
Pirates were finally rewarded for their efforts when, just before halftime, they were awarded a penalty after Mofokeng was fouled within the box. Makgopa stepped up and successfully converted the penalty kick, giving Pirates a 1-0 lead going to the break. The goal, scored at the stroke of halftime, buoyed the team’s spirits as they looked to extend their lead.
Yet, the second half saw Stade d’Abidjan come back stronger, determined to level the score. Their persistence paid off when Ousmane Meite found the back of the net, heading the ball past Pirates goalkeeper Sipho Chaine following a well-taken free kick. This equalizing goal, scored just nine minutes after the second half commenced, marked Stade d’Abidjan's first point of the tournament and dampened the spirits of the Pirates’ faithful.
Despite the setback, Pirates maintained their composure and pushed to regain the lead. Makgopa had the chance to score his second of the night when he found himself one-on-one with the opposition's keeper Drissa Bamba. Unfortunately for the Buccaneers, he could not find the back of the net and Bamba managed to disrupt Makgopa's shot.
The game remained intense as both sides exchanged opportunities. Pirates’ coach, Jose Riveiro, recognized the urgency of the situation and made strategic substitutions, replacing some key players to inject fresh energy. Gilberto, Tshegofatso Mabasa, and Kabelo Dlamini were brought on to turn the tide; yet, the changes did not yield the desired results.
Stade d’Abidjan, buoyed by their equalizer, nearly snatched victory themselves with Ben Koyate coming close to scoring late on, but his volley soared over the crossbar.
At the end of the gritty encounter, the Pirates left the pitch with mixed emotions. Though they were disappointed not to have secured all the points, the draw saw them move to the top of Group C with five points after three matches, one point clear of Al-Ahly, who have yet to play their match.
For Stade d’Abidjan, earning points on their debut stage is significant progress as they aim for improved performances moving forward. The draw clearly highlighted the competitive nature of the group, setting the stage for future encounters.
Reflecting on the match, Riveiro noted, "Although we had the ball and created opportunities, we must be more clinical to finish games like these. Every point counts, especially when aiming for the knockout stages of such competitive tournaments."
The Pirates will have to focus on their remaining matches as they prepare for their next challenge and continue to build on their momentum. Despite the missed chances, they remain unbeaten, which serves as motivation as they push forward.
The group stage is far from over, and with Al-Ahly closely trailing, the upcoming fixtures will be pivotal for both teams as they vie for top placement.
