CAFCL 2024/25: Pirates and Sundowns Cruises to Group Stages
In an exciting weekend for football, both Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns secured resounding victories in the second leg of the CAF Champions League second preliminary round on Saturday.
Orlando Pirates Edge Past Jwaneng Galaxy
At Orlando Stadium, the Buccaneers kept their hopes of reaching the group stages alive with a hard-fought 1-0 win against Jwaneng Galaxy FC. The solitary goal, scored late in the match by Monnapule Saleng, ensured a 3-0 aggregate victory for the home side. The win sees Orlando Pirates progress to the group stages of the continental club competition for the first time since the 2018/19 season.
Jwaneng Galaxy started the game brightly, looking to overturn the two-goal deficit from the first leg. However, the Pirates defense, led by a resolute Sipho Chaine in goal, stood firm against the visitors’ attacks. The Buccaneers created several chances of their own, with Deon Hotto coming close in the second half. The deadlock was finally broken in the dying minutes when Saleng’s strike found the back of the net, sparking jubilant celebrations among the home fans.
Mamelodi Sundowns Cruise Past Mbabane Swallows
Meanwhile, in Pretoria, Mamelodi Sundowns showcased their dominance with a comfortable 4-0 victory over Mbabane Swallows. The Brazilians had already secured a 3-0 lead in the first leg, and the second leg proved to be a mere formality. The emphatic win underlined Sundowns’ ambition to reclaim the CAF Champions League title they last won in 2016.
The resounding victories by both Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns demonstrate the strength and potential of South African football on the continental stage. Both teams will now look forward to the group stage draw, hoping for favorable fixtures as they continue their quest for CAF Champions League glory.
CAFCL: Conclusion
These results send a powerful message to the rest of the continent: South African football is back in a big way. The success of Pirates and Sundowns not only raises the profile of the domestic league but also serves as a beacon of hope for other aspiring African clubs. As the group stages approach, all eyes will be on these two South African powerhouses as they strive to etch their names in CAF Champions League history.
