Orlando Pirates and Al Ahly have played out to a 0-0 draw in their CAF Champions League Group C showdown at Orlando Stadium on Saturday afternoon.
Al Ahly came into this matchup as the reigning champions, having recently secured a record 12th title.
The two teams began their group stage journey with victories, and both have four points after two matches in Group C.
Below are some of the talking points from this entertaining showpiece.
AL AHLY YET TO WIN IN SOUTH AFRICA SINCE 2001
Al Ahly have not won in South Africa during their last 15 trips, recording eight draws and seven losses against PSL teams since 2001.
Today’s match in Soweto marks the 16th game without a victory against a South African team while playing away.
ORLANDO PIRATES AND AL AHLY PLAYED IN A SOLD-OUT AFFAIR
Tickets for this afternoon’s Champions League tie between Pirates and the Egyptian powerhouse at Orlando Stadium were officially sold out a day before the game.
The stadium was lively when the Buccaneers welcomed Al Ahly. The fans were unfazed by the heatwave [35 degrees Celsius] as they were resolute in supporting the Soweto giants.
PERCY TAU GETS A RUN AGAINST ORLANDO PIRATES
Former Mamelodi Sundowns star Percy Tau got a chance to play against Pirates in their Champions League showpiece.
Tau came in from the bench in the 63rd minute of the game, replacing Wessam Abou Ali. However, he did not do much to change the outcome of the tie.
ORLANDO PIRATES AND AL AHLY NOT CLINICAL
Neither team was sharp in finishing. Nonetheless, the Sea Robbers appeared to be the superior team on the day.
The visitors were unable to change the dynamics and seize control of the game, and they barely generated any goal-scoring opportunities, especially in the first half.
HEAD-TO-HEAD BETWEEN ORLANDO PIRATES AND AL AHLY
The Jose Riveiro-coached side has suffered only one loss in seven matches against Al Ahly in the CAF inter-club competition.
In those seven matches, Pirates drew three, won another three, and lost one in the process.
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