subscribe Support our award-winning journalism. The Premium package (digital only) is R30 for the first month and thereafter you pay R129 p/m now ad-free for all subscribers.
Subscribe now
Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro is not taking the Madagascan minnows for granted. Picture: MUZI NTOMBELA/BACKPAGEPIX
Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro is not taking the Madagascan minnows for granted. Picture: MUZI NTOMBELA/BACKPAGEPIX

Misfiring Orlando Pirates kicked off their Caf Champions League campaign with a disappointing goalless draw against Madagascar minnows Disciples FC at Cote d’Or National Sports Complex in Mauritius on Sunday.

The first leg of the preliminary round was staged in Mauritius due to a lack of facilities that meet Caf standards in Madagascar.

Buccaneers coach Jose Riveiro named a strong starting line-up that included Monnapule Saleng, Patrick Maswanganyi, Relebohile Mofokeng, Tshegofatsho Mabasa, Deon Hotto and Makhehlene Makhaula, for the clash.

Pirates created numerous goalscoring opportunities in the first half, but Mofokeng and Saleng failed to find the back of the net, with just a keeper to beat.

Disciples held their own in the match, keeping Pirates under pressure. They created a couple of chances that did not trouble Pirates goalkeeper Sipho Chaine.

Mabasa came close for Pirates in the second half, but was denied by the woodwork as frustration grew in Pirates’ camp.

The South Africans will aim for an improved display when they host the Disciples in the second leg at Orlando Stadium on Friday night.

subscribe Support our award-winning journalism. The Premium package (digital only) is R30 for the first month and thereafter you pay R129 p/m now ad-free for all subscribers.
Subscribe now

Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.

Speech Bubbles

Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.