By McGeorge Mbare
The battle for the CAF Champions league semi final spot kicked of with intense fixtures that traditional African giants triumphing albeit narrowly setting the stage for potentially pulsating return legs next week.
In notable results, South African outfit Orlando Pirates claimed a 1-0 victory over Algeria’s MC Algiers in Algiers in what was a crucial win for the Buccaneers.
Teenage sensation Mohau Nkota came of the bench to score the only goal of match in the 65th minute of the game, extending Pirates ‘ impressive run of being undefeated in the competition this season.
Fellow South African side Mamelodi Sundowns clinched a 1-0 against Esperance, after Namibian International Peter Shalulile broke the dead lock, giving the Pretoria side a hard fought victory.
The Egyptian giants and record 12 time African Champions Al Ahly secured a 1-0 victory against the Sudan outfit Al Hilal.Mohamed Hani scored the only goal of the match on minute 11.
Fellow Egyptians, Pyramids FC headlined quarter finals first leg encounters with the biggest win of the round as they effortlessly cruised past 4-1 against Moroccan side FAR Rabat at home.
Fiston Mayele and Ibrahim Adel found the back of the net twice each in this match to give Pyramids an edge over the Moroccan side.