Orlando Pirates picked up a massive away win at MC Alger, beating the Algerian Ligue 1 leaders despite being on the back-foot for most of the match.
The Buccaneers had to defend for large parts of the game, with Alger dominating possession almost the entire game but initially didn’t create much.
Sipho Chaine came to the rescue of his side after 24 minutes denying the home side, who started the game on top, the opener.
Alger had another chance from a header (Nr 24) after 29 minutes but it only hit the side netting.
Pirates had to suffer in this game and continue to suck up the pressure by the home side, but managed to hold steady, seemingly comfortable with a goalless draw away from home.
Naidji had a great chance for Alger in the 59th minute but his shot after a mistake by Deano Van Rooyen went past the post.
Pirates then scored against the run of play when Mohau Nkota was played through and calmly slotted past the goalkeeper after 66 minutes.
Just a minute later, Alger had the ball in the back of the net but the goal was ruled out after a foul on Pirates goalkeeper Chaine.
Pirates continued to frustrate the hosts, who dominated play but struggled to create any real chances, with Jose Riveiro’s men securing a massive result to carry into the second leg at Orlando Stadium next week.
