Youngster Phadime scores on debut as Pirates shine at home

Orlando Pirates will be South Africa’s sole representatives in the group stages of the Caf Champions League after eliminating African Stars of Namibia, winning 5-0 on aggregate following the second leg preliminary round at Orlando Amstel Arena on Friday.

Goals by Thapelo Mokobodi, Evidence Makgopa (two) and Mpho Phadime were added to the one of Tshepang Moremi, netted when Pirates won 1-0 in the first leg played in Gaborone, Botswana, last Saturday.

With the Buccaneers backed by their faithful in Orlando, they wasted no time in stamping their authority in this match with two goals by Mokobodi and Makgopa taking them to the interval, leading 2-0.

Within a minute of the second period, Pirates extended their lead when substitute youngster Phadime scored with his first touch after coming on for Moremi. Deon Hotto was the supplier when Makgopa completed his return from injury with a brace, scoring the second one 12 minutes from time.

This will be a second successive season for Pirates to reach the group stages of the money-spinning Champions League after being eliminated in the semifinals of this competition, which was won by Mamelodi Sundowns last season.

The Buccaneers will now shift their focus to the last 16 of the Carling Knockout Cup on Tuesday to host PSL newcomers Milford FC in Orlando before their blockbuster league fixture against Soweto rivals Kaizer Chiefs at FNB Stadium on October 31.