CAF Champions League: Al Ahli Tripoli edge past Dadjè FC to secure progress

Al Ahli Tripoli sealed their passage to the next stage of the CAF Champions League with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Dadjè FC on Sunday in the second leg of the first preliminary round.

The match in Libya was finely balanced after the first leg ended in a draw, and tension remained high throughout the opening period.

Both sides worked tirelessly to gain control of the game, with clear chances proving rare as defences stood firm.

The breakthrough finally came in the 56th minute, but not through a moment of brilliance.

Instead, an unfortunate own goal from Dadjè FC’s Sewanou Winsavi tipped the balance in favour of the hosts.

The Beninese side pushed forward in search of an equaliser but were repeatedly thwarted by a well-organised Tripoli defence.

The narrow win was enough to secure Al Ahli Tripoli’s place in the second preliminary round of the competition, extending their campaign on the continental stage.

For Dadjè FC, however, the defeat brought a premature end to their hopes of making further progress in Africa’s elite club tournament.

Al Ahli Tripoli’s ability to handle the pressure of a decisive tie demonstrated their experience and composure.

With the aggregate score now in their favour, they will look ahead to the next round with renewed confidence and the backing of their home supporters.

For Dadjè FC, the exit will be a bitter disappointment after they held their own in the first leg.

Their spirited display in Libya underlined their potential, but the own goal proved a decisive setback they could not recover from.

Sunday’s clash highlighted the fine margins that often decide knockout football.

While Al Ahli Tripoli advanced courtesy of a single goal, their discipline and control in the closing stages ensured there was no way back for their opponents.

With qualification secured, the Libyan side now turns its focus to the second preliminary round, where the level of competition will rise even further.

Having successfully negotiated a tricky first hurdle, Al Ahli Tripoli’s continental journey continues — a testament to their resilience under pressure and determination to make a mark in this season’s CAF Champions League.