South African clubs experienced a weekend of contrasting fortunes in CAF Interclub competitions, with Mamelodi Sundowns delivering an impressive victory in Nigeria while Orlando Pirates suffered a significant setback in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Meanwhile, Kaizer Chiefs and Stellenbosch FC secured goalless away draws, keeping their hopes alive ahead of crucial home return legs.
Sundowns Shine in Nigeria with Convincing Win Over Remo Stars
Mamelodi Sundowns faced what was arguably the toughest test among South African teams this weekend, traveling to Nigeria to play Remo Stars. Defying expectations, Sundowns put on a commanding display to secure a 5-1 victory, marking their first-ever win in Nigeria across four CAF Interclub attempts. The Brazilians raced to a 2-0 lead by halftime thanks to goals from Tashreeq Matthews and Peter Shalulile.
The second half saw new signing Miguel Reisinho score his maiden goal for Sundowns, followed by a strike from Brazilian forward Arthur Sales to extend the lead. Although Samson Olasupo netted a consolation for the home side late in the game, Tsiki Ntsabeleng sealed the emphatic win with his first goal since joining from FC Dallas. With this result, Sundowns are virtually assured of a spot in the group stages. The return leg takes place next Sunday in Pretoria.
Pirates Stunned by St Eloi Lupopo in Major Setback
Orlando Pirates’ trip to Lubumbashi ended in disappointment as they fell 3-0 to St Eloi Lupopo in the CAF Champions League second round’s first leg. Coach Abdeslam Ouaddou’s decision to rest key players like Oswin Appollis and Patrick Maswanganyi backfired spectacularly. This heavy defeat ranks as one of the Pirates’ joint second-worst losses in African club competitions, leaving them with a daunting task ahead.
Wanet Kashala struck early for Lupopo after just three minutes, followed by a second goal from Dramane Kambou late in the match. Jean Tukumbane added a third goal in the dying moments, meaning the Pirates must score five times in next Saturday’s return leg in Orlando if Lupopo manage to score an away goal.
Kaizer Chiefs Held to Scoreless Draw Against Simba SC
Kaizer Chiefs managed a 0-0 draw on the road against Simba SC in the CAF Confederation Cup second-round opener. The match was low on clear-cut chances, but Chiefs came close through Ashley du Preez, who missed a glaring opportunity with an open goal. While the draw leaves Chiefs well-positioned to advance, they must remain cautious of the away goals rule as they prepare to host Simba in Soweto next weekend.
Stellenbosch FC Secure Tough Away Draw in Equatorial Guinea
Stellenbosch FC also emerged with a 0-0 stalemate in their CAF Confederation Cup first-leg tie against 15 de Agosto in challenging conditions. The match in Ebebiyín featured difficult weather and a poor playing surface, yet coach Steve Barker expressed confidence. “We were the better team and created chances, but couldn’t find the finish. The players did well to earn a draw under such tough circumstances,” Barker said. The decisive second leg is scheduled for Sunday in Cape Town.
