Orlando Pirates continued their impressive European pre-season tour with a 1-1 draw against Granada at the Banús Football Center in Marbella, Spain.

New signing, the Angolan dribbler Gilberto, got the Buccaneers off to a strong start with a well-placed shot in the first half. Pirates displayed impressive attacking play, breaking through Granada’s defense.

However, the Spanish side, recently relegated to the Segunda Division, fought back. Zalman Weissman equalized for Granada just two minutes after Gilberto’s opener.

This was Pirates’ third friendly in Spain, having previously drawn 2-2 with Plymouth Argyle and secured a convincing 2-0 victory over Sevilla.

The Buccaneers started brightly with Gilberto’s left-footed strike at the far post and the goal was matched by his celebrated, showcasing positive development under coach Jose Riveiro in his third season at the helm. However, a defensive lapse by Sandile Mthethwa allowed Weissman to capitalize and level the score.

Pirates were unlucky not to take the lead again in the second half. Tshegofatso Mabasa’s effort struck the post, and Luca Zidane, son of legendary French footballer Zinedine Zidane, was beaten but was able to clear the ball.

The South African giants will conclude their European tour on Friday against Qatari champions Al Sadd.