Sudanese giants Al Merreikh has registered a 2-1 victory over visiting TP Mazembe of Congo DR in the first leg of the CAF Champions league semi finals match played today evening at the Al Merreikh Stadium in Omdurman.

Ghanaian Francis Coffee scored the opener for the hosts early in 41st minute after a poor clearance from keeper Robert Kidiaba for a Half time lead.

On resumption, The visitors started strongly making a double substitution in the 57th minute pulling out Ghanaian Daniel Nil Adjei for Zambian Nathan Sinaloa and bringing on Jean Kasusula for tired Marseille Bop.

The substitution brought in a lot of pressure with the visitors surging forward for an equalizer.
Al Merreikh were forced to withdraw Ashman Sided and in his place came in Omer Bakhit in the 73rd minute.

Tanzanian international Thomas Ulimwengu shocked the home fans when he drew level in the 77th minute after getting a through pass from Ivorian Roger Assale but fans favourite Bakri Babeker also known as ‘Al Medina’ restored parity three minutes later for a full time 2-1 score

Al Merreikh travel in a weeks time to Lubumbashi on 4th October for the return leg which will be staged at the State TP Mazembe Stadium.

The other semi final scheduled for tomorrow will see another Sudanese club Al Hill entertain USM Alger in Omdurman.

The winner of the tournament will represent Africa in the FIFA Club World In Japan

Austin Oduor

talking African football