By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Orlando Pirates began their CAF Champions League group stage campaign with a hard fought 2-1 win over CR Belouizdad at Stade Du 5 Juillet in Algiers on Tuesday night.
The victory saw Pirates join Al-Ahly at the top of Group C standings with three points, but the defending champions lead the group through the goal difference after the Egyptian giants beat Stade d’Abidjan 4-2 earlier on the day.
Mohau Nkota, broke the deadlock as early as five minutes into the showdown to put Pirates in front.
Nkota completed his brace when he scored another in the 27th minute of the game.
In the second half, Belouizdad took control of the match and they were rewarded for their constant threat through substitute Khanyisa Mayo who headed home from a corner kick.
The 20-year-old’s brace was enough to earn Pirates maximum points away from home in their first group stage game.
Meanwhile Mamelodi Sundowns were held to a goalless draw at the Loftus Versfeld Stadium against Manama Union, getting off to a lukewarm start in the tournament.
Elsewhere Esperance came out on top over Djoliba with a 4-0 victory as well and Raja Casablanca succumbed to a disappointing 1-0 loss against AS FAR.