Staff Reporter.
Orlando Pirates eased into the second preliminary round of the CAF Champions League with a commanding 4-0 victory over Lesotho’s Lioli FC at Orlando Stadium on Saturday.
Pirates wrapped up a 7-0 aggregate triumph, building on their 3-0 win in the first leg to underline their dominance in the tie.
In-form winger Tshepang Moremi broke the deadlock on the stroke of half-time, giving Pirates the advantage in front of their home supporters.
Just four minutes into the second half, Moremi struck again to double his tally and place the Buccaneers firmly in control.
Substitute Yanela Mbuthuma added further gloss to the scoreline with a quickfire brace in the closing stages. He struck in the 79th minute before finding the net again two minutes later to complete a comfortable evening for coach Abdeslam Ouaddou’s men.
Pirates’ victory sets up a tougher challenge in the next round, where they will face the winner of the tie between DR Congo’s Saint-Eloi Lupopo and Sudanese giants Al-Merreikh.
Elsewhere, Tanzania giants Young Africans also progressed to the second round after defeating Wiliete of Angola 2-0 at home on Saturday.
Second half goals by Pacome Zouzoua and Aziz Andabwile helped Yanga to the win and advance 5-0 on aggregate.
Black Bulls of Mozambique also secured their place in the second round after defeating Leopard on Saturday. The home side defeated the Congolese to progress 1-0 on aggregate despite playing most of the game with ten men.
Ethiopian Insurance moved to the next stage of the competition despite losing their 3-2 to Mlandege in Zanzibar on Saturday. The visitors advance 4-3 on aggregate.
Silver Strikers also progressed to the second round despite playing to a goalless draw at home to Elgeco Plus of Madagascar. The Malawi sealed their place thanks to the away goals rule after their first leg ended 1-1 last week.