Orlando Pirates fans applauded for loyalty after CAF Champions

Orlando Pirates supporters, known as “the Ghost,” have been widely praised for standing by their team despite the Buccaneers’ dramatic exit from the CAF Champions League on Saturday. The loyal fans filled Orlando Stadium with chants, songs, and drums, turning disappointment into a celebration of pride and resilience.

Pirates made a strong comeback in their second-leg clash against Democratic Republic of Congo side Saint Eloi Lupopo, winning 3-0 at home. The victory leveled the aggregate score at 3-3, but the Buccaneers were eliminated after losing 5-4 in the penalty shootout.

After the final whistle, fans remained in the stands, cheering and singing the names of every player, including head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou. The players and technical staff joined in by clapping and singing back, acknowledging the supporters for their unwavering belief.

While the atmosphere was festive in the stands, the match itself was marred by a series of controversial incidents and on-field tension. Referee Mohamed Ali Moussa was heavily criticised for what appeared to be lenient officiating toward the visiting team. The game saw two red cards and a yellow, reflecting the heated exchanges between the two sides.

One of the most chaotic moments came when Saint Eloi Lupopo player Amale Mukoko headbutted Pirates midfielder Nemtajela, sparking a confrontation. Tshepang Moremi, who pushed Mukoko away, was also sent off. However, in a case of mistaken identity, referee Moussa showed the red card to defender Chris Maniania instead of Mukoko, even after the player pointed to his teammate as the real offender.

Mukoko’s behaviour throughout the match drew further criticism as he repeatedly mocked Pirates supporters and taunted opposition players. Despite the unsporting conduct, the home crowd continued to sing and show love for their team.

The red card for Moremi means he will miss upcoming Bafana Bafana fixtures. In recent months, several Orlando Pirates players who have shown exceptional performance have been included in the national team squad.

After the match, Ouaddou expressed pride in his players’ performance, saying they had fought hard and deserved to progress to the group stages. “We gave everything, and I am proud of my players for the effort they put in,” he said during his post-match interview.

Fans also took their support to social media, with many praising the team’s spirit and the coach’s leadership. One user wrote on X, formerly Twitter: “We might be out of the Champions League. But this man built a monster in that team. I fully stand with Terminator in these difficult times.”

Videos from the stadium show thousands of supporters singing and waving flags even as rain began to fall. The players responded by clapping and chanting with the fans in a powerful show of unity.

The scenes at Orlando Stadium demonstrated the enduring connection between Orlando Pirates and their supporters. Although the team’s Champions League journey ended in heartbreak, the Ghost proved once again why they are regarded as some of the most passionate and loyal fans in South African football.