The match, which was closely contested, was decided in the 76th minute by Guessouma Fofana's clinical header. The goal came from a well-executed set piece, with Mohamed Abdelrahman providing the assist. Despite a late push from MC Alger, Al Hilal’s goalkeeper Issa Fofana was in top form, denying the hosts any chance of an equalizer.
With this win, Al Hilal remain at the top of Group A with nine points, four points ahead of second-placed MC Alger (4 points). The group also includes Mazembe and Young Africans (Yanga), who played out a dramatic 1-1 draw in Kinshasa earlier that day. Mazembe seemed set for victory when Cheick Fofana scored in the 41st minute, but Yanga fought back in the dying moments, with Prince Dube scoring a dramatic equalizer in the 94th minute.
Esperance Climb to the Top with Comfortable Win Over Pyramids
Esperance of Tunisia delivered an impressive performance to defeat Pyramids FC 2-0 in Radès, securing top spot in Group D. The match was largely decided in the first half, with Youcef Belaïli opening the scoring in the 36th minute with a stunning finish. Just before halftime, Elias Mokwana doubled the lead following a swift counterattack that left the visitors with little chance to respond.
With this victory, Esperance now sit at the top of Group D with seven points, while Pyramids, despite their defeat, remain second with four points. The group could see further developments on Sunday, with Sagrada Esperança taking on Djoliba in the other match.
Orlando Pirates Held by Stade d’Abidjan in Group C
Orlando Pirates were held to a 1-1 draw by Stade d’Abidjan in Abidjan, missing the opportunity to extend their lead at the top of Group C. Evidence Makgopa had given the Buccaneers the lead just before halftime, converting a penalty after Relebohile Mofokeng was fouled in the box. However, Ousmane Méité leveled the score for the Ivorian side with a header in the 53rd minute.
Stade d’Abidjan pushed for a winner in the closing stages, with Youssouf Koné and Babacar Guèye testing Orlando Pirates’ defense, but goalkeeper Sipho Chaine made a series of crucial saves to ensure a point for the visitors. Pirates remain atop Group C with five points, but their lead is slim, as defending champions Al Ahly sit just one point behind with a game in hand.
AS FAR and Maniema Union Share the Spoils in Group B
In Group B, AS FAR and Maniema Union played out a 1-1 draw at the Stade des Martyrs de la Pentecôte in Kinshasa. Maniema Union took the lead in the 37th minute through Exaucia Moanda, who calmly finished a well-worked corner from Agee Basiala. However, AS FAR responded in the second half, with To Carneiro scoring the equalizer in the 62nd minute to salvage a point for the visitors.
The result leaves AS FAR at the top of Group B with five points, while Maniema Union remain in second place with three points.
Group Stage Update
As the group stages of the CAF Champions League progress, the competition continues to heat up, with the likes of Al Hilal, Esperance, Orlando Pirates, and AS FAR all putting in solid performances to solidify their positions at the top of their respective groups. With more action to come, the road to the knockout stages is set to be fiercely contested.
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