Orlando Pirates' Journey in the 2020-21 CAF Confederation Cup A Comprehensive Recap

Orlando Pirates' Journey in the 2020-21 CAF Confederation Cup A Comprehensive Recap

1. Introduction

The 2020-21 CAF Confederation Cup saw the participation of Orlando Pirates, one of South Africa's most successful football clubs. The Buccaneers, as they are fondly called, had high hopes of clinching the continental title.

2. Group Stage Fixtures

Orlando Pirates was drawn in Group A with Algeria's ES Setif, Enyimba of Nigeria, and Libya's Al-Ahli Benghazi. The group stage fixtures saw the Buccaneers register three wins, two draws, and one loss. ES Setif managed to hold Pirates to a draw in the first game, but the South Africans bounced back with two consecutive victories against Enyimba and Al-Ahli Benghazi. The return fixtures were a mixed bag for the Pirates, though, as they lost to ES Setif before redeeming themselves with a 2-2 draw against Enyimba.

3. Quarterfinals

Orlando Pirates advanced to the quarterfinals with ease after finishing as group A runners-up. They were drawn against Raja Casablanca of Morocco, who were one of the tournament favorites. Pirates faced Raja Casablanca in the first leg in Morocco, and they did well to hold the hosts to a 1-1 draw. However, the return leg in South Africa was marred by controversy as a disallowed goal cost Pirates a spot in the semifinals.

4. Conclusion

Orlando Pirates' journey in the 2020-21 CAF Confederation Cup came to an end in the quarterfinals, but it was a commendable effort by the team. The Buccaneers showed great character and resilience in the group stage, and they were unlucky not to progress further in the tournament. With a bit of luck, Pirates could have gone all the way, but that's the nature of football. Nonetheless, they made their fans proud with their performances in Africa's second-tier club competition.

Orlando Pirates' Journey in the 2020-21 CAF Confederation Cup A Comprehensive Recap