Orlando Pirates Seek Group-Stage Return Against African Stars

Orlando Pirates host Namibian champions African Stars in the second leg of their CAF Champions League preliminary-round tie, holding a 1-0 advantage from Tshepang Moremi’s first-leg goal. A win or draw sends Pirates through to the group stage, while African Stars need a comeback to reach the stage for the first time in club history; a 1-0 Stars win would take the tie to penalties. Pirates have had a full week to prepare and are looking to avoid another early qualifying-round exit after last season’s elimination. Oswin Appollis is expected to return to fitness, with reports suggesting possible changes to the starting lineup.