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Berkane sink Pirates to seal African Confederation Cup title

Renaissance Berkane's Ibrahim El Bahraoui scored the winning penalty as they beat Orlando Pirates 5-4 in a shootout following a 1-1 draw in the final of the African Confederation Cup at Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Friday.

The Moroccans lifted the trophy for the second time in three years following a clash in which they were largely second-best to their South African opponents, but also gave up a late extra-time lead to see the tie go to spot kicks.

Berkane led early in extra time with a penalty when Youssef El Fahli sent Pirates goalkeeper Richard Ofori the wrong way.

Zambian referee Janny Sikazwe had initially waved away Berkane's penalty claims after Pirates midfielder Thabang Monare, only on the pitch for a matter of minutes, was adjudged to have committed a foul at a corner.

But after a check by the Video Assistant Referee, the official was persuaded to change his decision.

Pirates found an equaliser after 117 minutes that had a touch of good fortune. Forward Thembinkosi Lorch attempted a pass to a team mate in the six-yard box, but the ball eluded everybody and nestled in the corner.

The final of Africa's Champions League competition will be played on May 30 between Al Ahly of Egypt, seeking a third win in a row, and Wydad Casablanca of Morocco.

The match will be played at Wydad's Mohammed V Stadium, a controversial decision by the Confederation of African Football that has drawn stinging criticism from Ahly. (Reporting by Nick Said; Editing by