By Angu Lesley Ngwa Akonwi
Football Writer,kick442.com-Cameroon
Saint-Éloi Lupopo have qualified for the CAF Champions League group stage for the first time since 2006 after edging past Orlando Pirates in a dramatic penalty shootout at the Orlando Stadium in Johannesburg.
The Congolese side, led by coach Guy Bukasa, went into the return leg with a commanding 3–0 lead from last weekend’s first leg in Lubumbashi. But the South African giants produced a fierce response on home soil, matching the scoreline with goals from Melusi Nemtajela (39’), Yanga Mbuthuma (68’) and Oratile Appollis (90+5’) to make it 3–3 on aggregate.
That set the stage for a tense penalty shootout — and Cameroonian goalkeeper Simon Omossola emerged as the hero of the night.
Omossola’s moment of brilliance
The 26-year-old shot-stopper, who joined Lupopo from AS Vita Club, made a vital save to deny Deon Hotto from the spot, before Yanga Mbuthuma fired Pirates’ fifth penalty wide to send Lupopo through 5–4 on penalties.
Omossola, who had already made several crucial saves during the 90 minutes, was mobbed by teammates as Lupopo celebrated a famous qualification in front of their small but jubilant travelling support.
“We suffered tonight, but we stayed united,” said Omossola after the match.
“I told the boys we just needed to believe and stay calm. This qualification means a lot — not just to us, but to all Congolese football fans.”
Bukasa’s men hold their nerve
Despite being under relentless pressure for most of the match, Lupopo’s organisation and mental strength stood out. Captain Mokonzi, Mavungu, Kimputu, Kambou, and Matukala all converted their penalties with precision and composure, sealing the win that sends the Lubumbashi-based club back among Africa’s elite.
Coach Guy Bukasa praised his players’ character after the final whistle:
“Football can be cruel, but it rewards courage. We lost 3–0 tonight, but our determination never faded. My players showed maturity and faith — this is their night.”
Historic qualification
The victory marks a massive milestone for Saint-Éloi Lupopo, who have long lived in the shadow of city rivals TP Mazembe. Their return to the Champions League group stage confirms the progress made under Bukasa and highlights the quality of players like Omossola, who continues to build a reputation as one of the continent’s finest goalkeepers.
For Orlando Pirates, the elimination will sting deeply — another continental dream cut short despite a strong home performance.
Final score: Orlando Pirates 3–0 Saint-Éloi Lupopo (Agg. 3–3, Lupopo win 5–4 on pens)
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