Ghana goalkeeper, Richard Ofori could not save his South African side, Orlando Pirates from advancing to the group stage of the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League

Despite coming on in very late in the game for the penalty shoot-out, the Black Stars goalkeeper could not save his side as a thrilling penalty shootout against Jwaneng Galaxy on Friday night ended in defeat

The nail-biting contest concluded 5-4 in favor of the Botswana side, spelling the conclusion of the Buccaneers' journey at the Orlando Stadium.

Despite the Pirates winning the return leg 1-0 on their home ground, the aggregate scoreline was tied at 1-1 after 180 minutes of intense action, following their 1-0 defeat to Galaxy in the initial leg two weeks ago.

The defining moment of the match arrived when Relebohile Mofokeng missed Orlando Pirates' sole penalty during the shootout, sealing their fate and handing victory to Jwaneng Galaxy.

This victory was especially significant for Jwaneng Galaxy's coach, Morena Ramoreboli, a South African-born mentor who had previously guided underdogs Maluti FET to an upset win over Orlando Pirates in a cup match a decade ago.

Despite Orlando Pirates entering the match on the back of three consecutive defeats, they were considered the favorites to secure a win and progress to the group stage.

However, Goitseone Phoko's outstanding goalkeeping nearly thwarted their efforts until Evidence Makgopa found the back of the net.

Phoko showcased his prowess by denying Lepasa's glancing header early in the match and thwarting Thabang Monare's shot midway through the first half. His acrobatics continued as he blocked Maswanganyi's close-range effort.

However, Pirates turned the tide with second-half changes, leading to a chaotic scramble in the box that resulted in the equalizing goal. Makgopa's low shot, which took a deflection, finally broke Phoko's resistance.

Both sides remained relentless, mindful of the significance of an away goal. Pirates were disappointed when Erasmus' thunderous strike ricocheted off the woodwork, and Makgopa squandered two golden opportunities to seal victory.

As the match culminated in a penalty shootout, the spotlight turned to the goalkeepers, with Phoko facing off against Richard Ofori, who had replaced Chaine specifically for the shootout.

In a gripping finale, Phoko emerged as the hero, saving Mofokeng's crucial penalty and propelling Jwaneng Galaxy into the group stage, while Orlando Pirates endured the heartbreak of elimination from the competition.