Orlando Pirates needed a late strike by Monnapule Saleng to claim a 3-0 aggregate win and make it to the group stage of the Caf Champions League at the expense of Jwaneng Galaxy.
Bucs came into the match at the Orlando Stadium as favourites, having won the first leg at the National Stadium in Gaborone 2-0. Prior to the fixture, the Soweto giants had not tasted defeat in the seven games played across all competitions.
Coach Jose Riveiro made some changes in the team, opting to bench Relebohile Mofokeng and Thalente Mbatha with Kabelo Dlamini and Gilberto starting.
It was the visitors who had a strong start in their bid to get an early goal to destabilize the Soweto giants.
The goalless first half
Despite their good start, the Botswana outfit struggled to break the Buccaneers' defense that was determined to keep a clean sheet at home.
Bucs should have done better in the 13th minute when Galaxy were caught napping. However, Gilberto and Dlamini failed to utilize the opportunity despite the goalkeeper and the defenders looking off position and stranded.
Seven minutes later, Thabane Sesinyi managed to get some space in the Pirates' final third but goalkeeper Sipho Chaine kept his shot out. The home fans must have breathed a sigh of relief when the first half ended as Galaxy ended it on a high.
Galaxy keep Pirates at bay
After the break, the visitors still started well and in the 50th minute, Thero Setsile found his way into the danger zone but failed to hit the target from what looked like a fine angle.
Monnapule Saleng was lively throught the evening but was unlucky in front of the goal. He was fouled in the 55th minute just outside the area, but the Dlamini freekick did not trouble the opponent.
Galaxy looked frustrated with 30 minutes to go, opting to go for long-range efforts after failing to break Pirates' back four.
With 18 minutes left, Phoko Goitseone had to be at his best to stop Dlamini from finding the back of the net after a brilliant free-kick from the edge of the 18-yard area.
When it looked like it will end goalless at home, the in form Saleng produced a moment of magic to score and ensure Bucs made teh Caf Champions League's group stage in style.
Pirates will now turn their attention to the Premier Soccer League where they are scheduled to play Polokwane City on Tuesday night.
