All eyes will be on Stade du Juillet 1962 as Orlando Pirates face CR Belouizdad in their TotalEnergies CAF Champions League Group C opener tonight. This will be the first encounter between the two sides in continental competition.
However, not the first time that Orlando Pirates face a team from Algeria.The Buccaneers have played against four different teams from that part of the world and in those seven encounters, the Soweto Giants have recorded three wins, three draws and one loss – scoring seven times and conceding three in the process.
Year Opposition Result Competition
1996 JS Kabylie 1-0 Super Cup Final
1997 USM Alger 1-2 Champions Cup
USM Alger 1-1 Champions Cup
2021 ES Setif 0-0 Confederation Cup
ES Setif 0-0 Confederation Cup
2022 JS Saoura 2-0 Confederation Cup
JS Saoura 2-0 Confederation Cup
North Versus South
Whenever clubs from Southern tip of the African continent meet teams from the North – fireworks are guaranteed. From the electric atmospheres created by passionate home fans to the contrasting styles of play, these matchups are often captivating.
Northern teams are known for their high-intensity, aggressive approach, while South African teams rely on speed and flair. This contrast sets the stage for a tactically intriguing contest, especially for football purists.
To offer deeper insight into these encounters, orlandopiratesfc.com introduces the Opposition Analysis feature for the Buccaneers’ CAF Champions League campaign.
Here, we dissect and analyse each opponent in detail.
Team on the Mend
Current Form (Last 5 Matches): D-L-D-L–W-W
CR Belouizdad, affectionately known as The Reds, had a challenging start to their Algerian Premier League campaign but seem to have turned a corner with back-to-back league wins. These victories have provided a much-needed boost ahead of their Group Stage opener against Orlando Pirates. The Club recently parted ways with head coach Corentin Martins after a winless run in their first four league matches. His replacement, the highly experienced Abdelkader Amrani, has overseen four games so far, achieving two wins, one draw, and one loss.
Key Players
Islam Sliman (36 Years Old)
Despite his age, Sliman remains a key figure for CR Belouizdad. His recent performance in their 3-1 win over MC Alger demonstrated his enduring quality. Standing at 1.88m, Sliman has a wealth of experience from European football, having played for Sporting CP, Leicester City, Newcastle United, and Monaco, among others.
In six league games this season, he has scored three goals, averaging 0.50 goals per game — a rate matched only by Monnapule Saleng and Evidence Makgopa.*
*league only
Abdelraouf Benguit (28 Years Old)
The Algerian midfielder is the heartbeat of CR Belouizdad. Known for his fiery temperament, Benguit combines technical proficiency with composure and provides direction to his team. He has scored three goals in six league games, an impressive return for a midfielder. His ability to draw fouls is also a significant asset, particularly in the physical battles typical of North African football.
Abderrahmane Meziane (30 Years Old)
While Meziane is yet to score in Ligue 1 this season, his influence on the left flank cannot be overlooked. A versatile winger, Meziane excels at cutting inside onto his stronger foot, often creating opportunities for his teammates. He is a tricky customer who must not be allowed to settle into the game.
Strengths
Transitions and Wing Play
• CR Belouizdad excel in quick transitions.
• Most of their attacks originate from the flanks, driven by their wingbacks.
• Sliman serves as the focal point, holding up play effectively in transitions but also being at the end of attacks in the box.
• They pose a significant aerial threat in the box, with Sliman leading the charge.
Set-Pieces
• CR Belouizdad are formidable from set-pieces.
• Players like Sliman, Keddad, and Hadded require close marking during corners and free kicks around the box.
