Orlando Pirates secured their place in the CAF Champions League second preliminary round with a comfortable 3-1 victory over La Cure Waves at Orlando Stadium on Saturday.
The Buccaneers, who played to a goalless draw in the first leg, fell behind early after goalkeeper Sipho Chaine’s error allowed Jean Ami to give the visitors the lead in the sixth minute.
Pirates responded almost immediately, with Kabelo Kgositsile scoring his first goal for the club since returning from a loan spell at Baroka FC to restore parity.
Kamogelo Sebelebele then completed the turnaround in the 25th minute before Yanela Mbuthuma extended Pirates’ advantage shortly before half-time, connecting with Thapelo Mokobodi’s cross from a corner to make it 3-1.
Pirates continued to control proceedings after the break, with Appollis testing La Cure Waves goalkeeper Ramdiane three minutes into the second half. Sebelebele also came close on the hour mark with a volley from the right, while Ramdiane was forced into another save from a Neo Rapoo set-piece.
The visitors struggled to create meaningful opportunities as the second half progressed, while Pirates remained on the front foot without adding to their advantage.
Boitumelo Radiopane had a late opportunity to make it four after breaking away, but Ramdiane denied the substitute striker.
The final whistle confirmed a 3-1 victory for Pirates, who advance to the CAF Champions League Second Preliminary Round, scheduled to begin in mid-October.
