Holders Esperance of Tunisia booked their place in the African Champions League quarters with one match to spare in Group B after beating Guinea's Horoya AC 2-0 at home on Friday. Horoya's Hamed Assoko headed a floated cross into his own net in the 23rd minute to give Esperance a first-half lead. Cameroonian midfielder Franck Kom wrapped up the win with three minutes remaining, side-footing home from close range after a free kick caused mayhem in the area. The result means Esperance will finish as the group leaders regardless of the outcome of their final match as they lie on top with 11 points, four ahead of second-placed Horoya. In the other group game, South Africa's Orlando Pirates scored two late goals to come from two goals down and earn an exciting 2-2 draw at home to Platinum Stars to keep alive their hopes of reaching the knockout phase. Platinum took the lead in the first half with goals from Never Tigere and Rainsome Pavari but Pirates staged a late comeback to secure a share of spoils, thanks to goals from Thembinkosi Lorch and Augustine Mulenga in the 81 and 87 minutes respectively. Pirates are third on six points, with already-eliminated Platinum at the bottom with only two points. Horoya will host Pirates in a mouthwatering clash next week to determine who will book the second group ticket to the last eight. (For more sports news and updates, follow Ahram Online Sports on Twitter at @AO_Sports and on Facebook at AhramOnlineSports.)
