Nkota’s Goal Gives Pirates Crucial Away Victory Against MC Alger

Mohau Nkota’s second-half goal proved decisive as Orlando Pirates secured a 1-0 victory over MC Alger in the first leg of their CAF Champions Cup quarter-final at Stade du 5 Juillet 1962 in Algiers on Tuesday.

Nkota, a second-half substitute for Kabelo Dlamini, capitalized on a precise through ball from Relebohile Mofokeng, calmly slotting home to give Pirates a vital away advantage heading into the second leg in South Africa.

Pirates returned to the same venue where they began their group stage campaign, having previously defeated CR Belouizdad 2-1, with Nkota scoring both goals.

A fervent crowd of approximately 64,000 created an intimidating atmosphere for Pirates. The South African side needed to unsettle their opponents early, but it was Alger who dominated the initial stages, pinning Pirates back and preventing them from launching attacks.

Goalkeeper Sipho Chaine was kept busy, making several crucial saves to keep Pirates in the game. He produced a particularly impressive stop in the 24th minute to deny Guinea striker Mohamed Bangoura.

Algerian attacker Zakaria Naidji also had a clear opportunity, but his header went wide. Pirates struggled to break free from Alger’s pressure, with Mofokeng closely marked. Thalente Mbatha’s long-range attempt was Pirates’ only shot on goal in the first 40 minutes. Naidji threatened again in stoppage time, but Chaine remained resolute.

With the first half ending goalless, Pirates’ coach Jose Riveiro needed to adjust his strategy. The second half began similarly, with Alger continuing their relentless pressure. Deano van Rooyen nearly gifted Alger a goal with a misplaced clearance, but Naidji failed to capitalize.

Against the run of play, Pirates struck in the 65th minute. Nkota, set up by Mofokeng, ran through and scored the decisive goal. Alger’s momentum faltered, and their midfield began to break down.

Pirates entered the match unbeaten in 10 Champions League games, topping Group C ahead of Al Ahly. Because of that, Pirates, making their first knockout stage appearance since their 2013 final run, were considered favorites and demonstrated their efficiency by scoring with their only clear chance.

Pirates have enjoyed a successful run under Riveiro, having collected 14 points from a possible 18 in the group stage without suffering a loss.

Ahead of the second leg at Orlando Stadium next week, Pirates are favorites to advance, having maintained an unbeaten home record in the competition this season.