CAFCL 2023 Preview: CR Belouizdad vs Orlando Pirates FC – Key Insights & Predictions

Orlando Pirates travel to Algeria for their first CAF Champions League Group C match. They will face CR Belouizdad on Tuesday night at Stade du Juillet 1962 in Algiers. This match is important for Pirates, who aim to win a second title, adding to their 1995 victory.

Form Guide

Pirates reached the group stage after defeating Malagasy champions Disciples and Jwaneng Galaxy. They won 3-0 on aggregate against Galaxy. The team has a winning streak of four matches, with their last league victory against Richards Bay. Their only recent defeat was during the Carling Knockout Cup Round of 16.

Belouizdad has managed to bounce back in their league, winning their last two matches, but they still sit in the bottom half of the standings after a poor start. In the Champions League, they defeated AC Léopards and advanced past Douanes in a penalty shootout after each team won at home.

Team News

Pirates welcome back eight international players after the international break, along with key returning players, Deano van Rooyen, Makhehlene Makhaula, and Thuso Moleleki. Belouizdad may be without striker Merouane Zerrouki, who has been injured since early October.

Players to Watch

Islam Slimani, a former forward for Newcastle United and Leicester City, will lead the attack for Belouizdad. He has scored three goals in seven league matches. Khanyisa Mayo offers insight into Pirates, which could benefit Belouizdad. Abdelraouf Benguit enhances the midfield with goals, while Chouaib Keddad and Mouad Hadded provide defensive stability. Goalkeeper Toufik Moussaoui has started most matches this season.

Head-to-Head

This match is the first encounter between Orlando Pirates and CR Belouizdad.

How to Watch

The match kicks off at 21:00 and will be broadcast live on SABC Sport and Supersport Channel 209. Pirates will also provide live updates on their social media platforms.