Malian giants Stade Malien have moved to the top of Group D in the CAF Champions League following a thrilling victory over Angolan outfit Petro Atletico de Luanda on Sunday.
The two teams clashed in a highly competitive match at the Stade 26 Mars in Bamako in the third round of the group stage, with the first half ending in a pulsating goalless draw, as both teams struggled to find the back of the net.
After the halftime break, the home team showcased resilience and determination, cruising to a 2-0 victory over their opponent. The win not only delivered crucial points in a tightly contested group but also highlighted Stade Malien’s growing momentum in the competition.
The Malian giants wasted no time in the second half, scoring two quick goals to secure the maximum points at stake. Cameroon international Taddeus Nkeng broke the deadlock for Stade Malien in the 54th-minute before Mamadou Traore fired home the second goal five minutes later to cement victory for the host.
Stade Malien comfortably sit top of Group D with seven points, having secured two wins and a draw from the initial three matches, while Esperance de Tunis occupies second spot with five points.
Following the defeat, Petro Atletico have dropped to the third position accumulating four points, while Tanzanian giants Simba SC sit bottom of the table without a point.
