Makgopa’s Brace and Masilela’s Spark Propel Pirates into Champions League Group Stage

October 23, 2026 sportnow Orlando Pirates have successfully advanced to the group stages of the CAF Champions League after achieving a commanding 5-0 aggregate win against African Stars at the Orlando Amstel Arena on Friday evening. The Buccaneers are aiming for a stronger performance this season, having been knocked out by FC Saint-Éloi Lupopo in the preliminary rounds the previous year.

Entering the second leg with a narrow 1-0 lead from the first match, the Pirates were eager to secure their spot.

The Sea Robbers struck first in the 18th minute when Thapelo Mokobodi scored his inaugural goal for the club, assisted by young talent Simphiwe Masilela, increasing their aggregate lead to 2-0.

Just nine minutes later, Mokobodi nearly added another, taking a shot from outside the penalty area that went just wide of the goal.

The Pirates maintained control of the game as they pressed forward, showcasing their offensive skills to the delight of their home crowd.

Determined to secure victory before the break, they increased their aggregate lead to 3-0 when Evidence Makgopa scored, benefiting from another assist from Masilela, who notched his second of the night.

This goal marked Makgopa’s first of the 2026/27 season in just his third match back from injury.

Meanwhile, African Stars found it challenging to penetrate the Pirates’ defensive setup, with the Buccaneers effectively controlling the match.

At half-time, the Pirates boasted a 2-0 lead for the evening and a solid 3-0 aggregate edge.

After the break, the Buccaneers quickly extended their advantage, as Mpho Padime scored in the 47th minute, raising the aggregate score to 4-0.

The situation grew increasingly difficult for African Stars as the Pirates continued to dominate the field.

In the 79th minute, Makgopa completed his brace with a straightforward tap-in, clinching a comfortable victory for the Soweto giants.

Ultimately, the Pirates secured an impressive 5-0 aggregate win, maintaining a clean sheet at home and advancing to the CAF Champions League group stages.