Orlando Pirates end Spain tour with defeat to NEOM SC

The Buccaneers struggled to impose themselves throughout the contest, producing an uninspiring attacking display that highlighted the absence of former star Relebohile Mofokeng, who recently completed his move to Belgian side Royale Union Saint-Gilloise.

Abdeslam Ouaddou's side created few meaningful chances against a NEOM team coached by former Paris Saint-Germain manager Christophe Galtier and featuring ex-Arsenal and Lyon striker Alexandre Lacazette.

Pirates' best first-half opportunity fell to Tshepang Moremi after a swift attacking move, but the winger failed to hit the target, lifting his effort over the crossbar.

Earlier, the Soweto giants survived a scare when Thalente Mbatha was dispossessed in a dangerous area, although NEOM failed to capitalise.

The decisive moment arrived in the 31st minute when former West Ham United winger Saïd Benrahma curled a free-kick beyond Sipho Chaine at his near post, giving the Saudi side a lead they would not relinquish.

Ouaddou introduced changes after the break in search of an equaliser, but Pirates continued to lack creativity in the final third.

Patrick Maswanganyi, deployed in the No. 10 role for the full 90 minutes, struggled to influence proceedings, while substitute Boitumelo Radiopane squandered the visitors' clearest second-half chance by firing wide from close range.

The defeat marked Pirates' second loss of their European training camp after they previously went down 3-2 to Al-Ittihad. They also recorded a 1-1 draw against Cordoba CF and claimed a 1-0 victory over Spanish side Las Palmas.

Despite the disappointing finish, the Spanish camp provided valuable preparation and match fitness as Pirates gear up for a demanding season, where they will look to defend their domestic treble and challenge for a first Betway Premiership title since the 2011/12 campaign.