By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
@GalloImages.
Orlando Pirates opened their CAF Champions League campaign with a 0-0 draw against Disciples FC in the first leg of first preliminary round at the Cote D’Or Nations Sports Complex in Mauritius on Sunday.
Pirates went into the game with a strong team that included the exciting attacking foursome of Monnapule Saleng, Patrick Maswanganyi, Relebohile Mofokeng and Tshegofatso Mabasa.
Mofokeng had a chance in the 32nd minute, but his effort was deflected wide.
Saleng also had an opportunity in the 37th minute but his effort was saved by the Disciples goalkeeper.
Pirates made a couple of changes in the early stages of the second half, bringing on Thalente Mbatha and Kabelo Dlamini for Makhehleni Makhaula and Relebohile Mofokeng.
In the 67th minute Sipho Chaine was forced into a fine save by Disciples. In the 80th minute, Mabasa came close to breaking the deadlock when his shot inside the box hit the crossbar.
Disciples had two more great chances in the end but Pirates held onto the point away from home.
The second leg will be hosted by Pirates on Friday, 23 August at Orlando Stadium at 7:30 pm.
Meanwhile Jwaneng Galaxy suffered a 1-0 defeat to the Namibian team, African Stars, in an away match on Saturday. The Botswana giants are set to host the second leg on August 24 at the Botswana National Stadium.
Should the scoreline be in favour of African Stars after the completion of two legs, they will face Pirates in the second preliminary round. The first leg will take place in the weekend of 13-15 September (17 September as alternative) while the return tie will be played between 20-22 September.