CAFCL: Orlando Pirates stunned in the DRC

Orlando Pirates have a massive mountain to climb after suffering a surprise 0-3 first leg defeat to Congolese club FC Saint-Éloi Lupopo in the final qualifying stage of the CAF Champions League (CAFCL) on Sunday.

Wanet Kashala’s long range effort put the Railwaymen in front inside three minutes and the hosts did not look back at the Stade Frederic Kibassa Maliba in Lubumbashi. It was a struggle for the Bucs whose poor start was compounded by a strong effort from the runners-up in DR Congo’s Linafoot.

After recovering to put some pressure on their hosts, it appeared that Pirates might be able to escape with only a one-goal deficit back to South Africa. However, Burkinabe midfielder Dramane Kambou’s free kick in the 70th minute doubled the lead and sent the home supporters into ecstasy.

Jean-Benoit Tukumbane added one more goal to give Les Cheminots at Orlando Stadium next Saturdayreal belief ahead of the second leg . With a group stage place at stake, Pirates have a major task ahead after advancing to the semifinals of the Champions League last season.