Pirates fly the SA flag high

Written by Albert Pule

Orlando Pirates progressed to the Confederation of African Football (CAF) Confederation Cup final after a 4-3 win over Egypt’s Al Ahly in their second leg tie at the Suez Stadium in Egypt, early this month.

The 4-3 victory saw Pirates advance with a 5-3 aggregate score, after their 1-0 victory in the first leg on 26 September at Orlando Stadium.

Goals from Kermit Erasmus, Thamsanqa Gabuza, Thabo Matlaba and Thabo Rakhale ensured a victory for Orlando Pirates and the nation.

Pirates went into the encounter needing only a draw to advance to the final but they were forced into action after the hosts took the lead.

In six previous meetings between the two clubs, Pirates have won three, drawn two, and lost only one game. Two of the wins were in Egypt, Al Ahly’s home country.

Pirates will face Tunisian side Etoile du Sahel in a two-legged tie to be played in November.

Etoile du Sahel won the competition in 2006 while Pirates will be playing in the final of the competition for the first time.

The Buccaneers will be seeking a third piece of silverware from CAF competitions. The team won the 1995 Champions Cup (now CAF Champions League) and the CAF Super League the following year.