Happy Jele’s first-half goal was all Orlando Pirates needed to see off Diables Noirs to reach the CAF Confederation Cup play-off round on Sunday evening.
Terrence Dvzukamanja started upfront while Goodman Mosele and Wayde Jooste were brought back into the side at the expense of Olisa Ndah and Fortune Makaringe.
Pirates thought they had got the opener when Dvzukamanja headed home, but the celebrations were cut short due to the offside flag.
However, the Soweto giants were for their early momentum and dominance in 17th minute when captain Jele bundled home for his second goal of the sleep.
Diables Noirs did see his effort go through but couldn’t find a way past Siyabonga Mpontshane who barely had a save to make in the first half.
The Buccaneers decided to make some changes during the halftime break, as Hotto replaced Bongani Sam who had just went close with a shot from distance just minutes before been subbed off.
Pirates also made some more changes to freshen up the team as Abel Mabaso and Tshegofatso Mabasa replaced Jooste and Dzvukamanja for the final 30 minutes.
Diables enjoyed a good amount of the ball in the final 10 minutes but just as they did in the first half, they were unable to force a save out of Mpontshane.
Pirates and fellow PSL side Marumo Gallants have progressed to the final play-off round as they look reach the group stages once again.