Match Overview

The highly anticipated clash between MC Alger and Orlando Pirates lived up to its hype, drawing thousands of fans across Africa and beyond. Taking place in Algiers as part of the CAF Champions League group stage, this game had major implications for both teams' chances of progressing.

Official Lineups

MC Alger Starting XI:

• Goalkeeper: Farid Chaâl

• Defenders: Belkhir, Boualem, Zidane, Boudoumi

• Midfielders: Belkheir, Saadi, Benrahou

• Forwards: Messaoudi, Amrani, Tougai

Orlando Pirates Starting XI:

• Goalkeeper: Sipho Chaine

• Defenders: Thabiso Monyane, Nkosinathi Sibisi, Tapelo Xoki, Innocent Maela

• Midfielders: Thabang Monare, Miguel Timm, Relebohile Mofokeng

• Forwards: Mohau Nkota, Zakhele Lepasa, Monnapule Saleng

Key Absences:

• MC Alger missed striker Abid due to suspension

• Pirates had Thembinkosi Lorch sidelined with an injury

Match Highlights & Key Moments

• 14': MC Alger took the lead through Messaoudi with a clinical left-footed strike inside the box.

• 29': Zakhele Lepasa equalized for the Pirates, finishing off a counterattack initiated by Mofokeng.

• 57': Orlando Pirates were awarded a penalty after Maela was brought down. Lepasa converted for his brace.

• 71': A controversial VAR decision disallowed what looked like MC Alger's equalizer.

• 88': Substitute Mohau Nkota sealed the game with a brilliant solo goal, making it 3-1.

Final Score: MC Alger 1 - 3 Orlando Pirates

Match Stats

• Possession: MC Alger 48% - 52% Orlando Pirates

• Shots on Target: 4 - 7

• Fouls: 14 - 11

• Yellow Cards: 3 - 2

• Man of the Match: Zakhele Lepasa

Fan Reactions & Social Buzz

Fans flooded social media with praise for Mohau Nkota and Lepasa.

• "Nkota is a star in the making! What a goal!" tweeted @BucsFanZA

• "MC Alger robbed by VAR! That second goal should've stood," wrote @DZFootball

#orlandopirates #mcalger #CAFCL #piratesgametoday were all trending across Twitter and Instagram

CAF Group Standings Update

With this win, Orlando Pirates climb to second in their group with 7 points. MC Alger remains on 5 points and will now need to win their final group game to qualify.

Next Fixtures:

• Orlando Pirates vs ES Tunis (April 10)

• MC Alger vs Young Africans (April 10)

FAQs

Q: Who scored for Orlando Pirates today?

A: Zakhele Lepasa (2 goals), Mohau Nkota (1 goal)

Q: When is Orlando Pirates' next match?

A: April 10, against ES Tunis

Q: How can I watch CAF Champions League matches?

A: Matches are broadcast on SuperSport and available for streaming via CAF TV and selected online platforms.

Author: The Editorial Staff

Published by: XtraAfrica News

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