Orlando Pirates have set their sails towards Algeria for the opening game of their CAF Champions League Group C campaign which kicks off with a clash against CR Belouizdad on Tuesday night. It’s a late kick-off for the two sides, who do battle at the iconic Stade du Juillet 1962 in Algiers.
The much-anticipated fixture begins a crucial phase in the Buccaneers’ search for a second star on their crest as they aim to add to their remarkable 1995 triumph. They’re up against a Belouizdad outfit that has become a regular feature in the group stage as well as the knockout rounds of the prestigious continental championship in recent years.
Form Guide
Pirates’ journey to the group stage has taken them to Madagascar and neighbouring Botswana. They defeated Malagasy champions Disciples in the opening preliminary round with all their four goals across the two legs of the tie coming in the decider at Orlando Stadium after the away leg finished goalless. They booked their spot in the groups with an impressive showing against Jwaneng Galaxy, who they defeated in each of the two legs of the final playoff round to go through with a 3-0 aggregate score.
A more testing challenge now awaits the Soweto Giants, who are coming off a lengthy break in action after last taking to the field earlier in the month when they claimed a narrowly league victory over Richards Bay. The result extended their winning streak to four matches, with their last defeat dating back to just after the previous international break when they exited the Carling Knockout Cup in the Round of 16.
Maintaining momentum will be key for the Buccaneers as they look for a crucial three points against a side that has overturned a string of disappointing results in their domestic league. Affectionately known as “The Reds”, the Algerians were in action against rivals MC Alger and secured the second of back-to-back league victories. They however remain in the bottom half of the standings, having endured a disappointing start to their campaign where they failed to get over the line in each of their six opening fixtures.
Outside Algerian shores, they saw off the challenge of Congo’s AC Léopards in the first preliminary round of the Champions League before narrowly defeating Senegalese outfit Douanes in a tie that had to be settled by penalties after each side posted a 1-0 in their respective home legs.
Much like the Buccaneers, they will be determined to get off to a good start as they look to get an edge in what promises to be one of the most fiercely-contested in the current edition of the prestigious tournament.
Team News
The visitors welcomed eight internationals back to camp following the recent international break, and have been further boosted by the return of key players from injury. Deano van Rooyen, Makhehlene Makhaula and Thuso Moleleki have all travelled to Algeria after brief spells on the injury list and will all be in contention for spots in the match-day squad.
For the hosts, it could be another fixture without the services of striker Merouane Zerrouki who has been out since early October after picking up a knock in a league stalemate away to Biskra.
Players to Watch
Former Newcastle United and Leicester City forward Islam Slimani provides vital experience up front for Belouizdad and comes into the fixture in good form after netting three times in seven league appearances this season. He is expected to captain the side, while fellow forward Khanyisa Mayo’s familiarity with the Buccaneers could prove valuable.
Algerian international Abdelraouf Benguit has also chipped in with a few goals from midfield and there’s experience and defensive stability provided by the likes of Chouaib Keddad and Mouad Hadded. Their goal is safeguarded by another seasoned campaigner in Toufik Moussaoui, who has started in all but two of their matches this season.
Head-to-Head
Tuesday’s match will unlock a new chapter in the two team’s history as they will be doing battle for the first time ever.
How to Watch Orlando Pirates vs CR Belouizdad
Kick-off is at 21:00, and the game will be broadcast live on SABC Sport and Supersport Channel 209. Orlando Pirates will provide live updates across the club’s social media platforms.
