2024/2025 CAF Confederation Cup: El-Kanemi begins campaign with dramatic draw

Posted : 18 August 2024

After trailing by a lone goal, the El-Kanemi Warriors of Maiduguri managed to secure a dramatic equalizer in the final moments of the first leg of their preliminary round fixture against Daje FC. The match, held at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne, ended in a 1-1 draw, leaving the outcome finely poised for the return leg. The Warriors, who struggled to assert dominance throughout the encounter, were on the back foot for most of the game as they faced a determined Beninese side.

The Desert Warriors, despite their efforts, found themselves under constant pressure from the well-organized Daje FC. The Beninese team, intent on causing an upset, controlled large portions of the game and created several chances. Their persistence paid off when Bless Salassi scored the opening goal in the 30th minute. The goal put the Maiduguri side in a precarious position, intensifying their search for an equalizer and adding to the tension of the match.

El-Kanemi Warriors, despite their usual strong performances, struggled to find their rhythm against Daje FC. The Beninese side’s disciplined defense and effective counter-attacks made it difficult for the Warriors to penetrate and create meaningful opportunities. For much of the match, the Warriors were forced to defend resolutely, as Daje FC threatened to extend their lead.

However, the El-Kanemi Warriors showed remarkable resilience and determination. With the clock winding down and the game seemingly slipping away, Ajiji Samuel emerged as the hero for Maiduguri. In the dying minutes of the match, Samuel scored a crucial equalizer, ensuring that the Warriors would head into the return leg with a chance to advance. His goal was a testament to the team’s never-give-up attitude and provided a crucial lifeline for El-Kanemi.

The second leg of this preliminary round will take place next Saturday at the Stade de l'Amitié Général Mathieu Kérékou in Cotonou. This fixture will be crucial for both teams, as they vie for a place in the next round of the CAF Confederation Cup. The return match is expected to be intense, with both sides determined to secure their spot in the competition's next phase.

This campaign marks the third time in El-Kanemi Warriors' history that they are participating in continental competition. Their previous continental experience includes their appearance in the 1993 CAF Cup Winners' Cup, where they reached the semi-finals but were defeated 1-0 by Al-Ahly. The team's return to continental football reflects their ongoing ambition and commitment to achieving success on the African stage.

As the Warriors prepare for the decisive second leg, they will need to build on their late equalizer and improve their performance. The upcoming match in Cotonou will be a test of their resilience and tactical adaptability. With the aggregate score level, the El-Kanemi Warriors have everything to play for as they aim to advance to the next round of the CAF Confederation Cup.

2024/2025 CAF Confederation Cup: El-Kanemi begins campaign with dramatic draw

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