FC Platinum 0-0 Orlando Pirates
BULAWAYO – FC Platinum made their CAF Champions League group stage bow in front of a heaving Barbourfields Stadium, but they failed to snatch a win from a well-supported Orlando Pirates.
The Zimbabweans had the best openings in a game of few chances, which on balance would have slightly disappointed the 25,000 fans.
In the final moments of the match, the South Africans had a huge penalty claim after Vincent Pule was seemingly tackled from behind to the ground, but there was no reaction from the match official.
Zambian striker Justin Shonga nearly got Pirates off to the perfect second half start, but his right-footed effort was punched to safety by Petros Mhari.
Platinum’s best chances came in the early part of the second half from long range shots by Farai Madhanga and Ali Sadiki, but they missed the target.
Platinum kept Pirates on their toes in the first half, although the visitors could well have been a goal or two to the good at the break.
Thembinkosi Lorch had two good attempts which sailed narrowly wide of the Platinum goalposts. One of those was a chip after the Pirates striker spotted Mhari off his line halfway through the first 45 minutes.
At the other end of the park, the Pirates defence held firm in front of goalkeeper Jackson Mabokgwane.
Pirates will return home for their next Champions League Group B fixture, in the form of a home match against Horoya of Guinea on Friday while Platinum travel to Tunisian giants Esperance.
FC Platinum: Petros Mhari, Farai Madhanaga, Devon Chafa , Kelvin Madzongwe, Raphael Mudhuviwa, Mkhokheli Dube (Nhamo 86 mins) , Ali Sadiki(Mbweti 76 mins), William Stima, Gift Bello, Rahman Kutsanzira, Elvis Moyo
Orlando Pirates: Jackson Mabokgwane, Thembinkosi Lorch, Happy Jele, Kudakwashe Mahachi (Pule 74 mins), Justin Shonga (Mulenga 65 mins), Musa Nyatama, Marshal Munetsi, Xola Mlambo (Mntambo 86 mins), Bulelani Ndengane, Innocent Maela, Asavela Mbekile
