On Saturday KCCA FC suffered a 2-1 against CNaPS Sport FC in the first round of the CAF Champions League preliminary game at Vontovorona stadium Madagascar.
From the onset both teams showed strong intent for the game, playing a quick passing game and counter attacking football but it was KCCA FC that came closest through Shaban Muhammad and Kizza Mustafa’s efforts in the 5thand 10thminute respectively that were pushed over the crossbar by CNaPS’ custodian Andoniaina.
Minutes later, Captain Timothy Awany was called into action to make a timely tackle to deny CNaPS’ Haja Fortunat when he was through on goal 15 minutes. KCCA FC custodian Lukwago twice in a space of five minutes made fine saves with his super reflexes to deny Tobisao from scoring in the 30thand 35thminute.
The entire Vontovorona stadium went silent when fans misjudged Awany’s thumping header that rattled the crossbar, down the goal line and away to have counted as a goal only for referee Ahmad Imtehaz to wave play on, the defender headed from close range into custodian Andoniaina’s hands in 44thminute, four minutes after.
After the resume, Allan Okello was taken off for Paul Mucureezi in 52ndminute and a minute later the midfielder released Julius Poloto whose well taken cross from the right flank found a calm and collected Derrick Nsibambi unmarked in the box and the striker slotted home to give KCCA FC the advantage.
Seven minutes later, Filbert Obenchan handled the ball in the 18 and Fenosoa Ratolojanahary stepped up to draw matters level.
Shaban Muhammad was then booked for a late challenge on CNaPS keeper Andoniaina and later taken off for Denis Okot also Lawrence Bukenya for Sadam Juma.
With a minute to play in added time, Francis Rafaralahy headed CNaPS’ second goal from Lalaina Jacquot’s cross to give the hosts a 2-1 win.
Both teams will tussle it out in the second leg on the 21st February 2018 at StartTimes stadium, Lugogo.
