CAF Champions League: Late ASEC Mimosas equaliser frustrates MAS Fes as Esperance lose in Libya

MAS Fes were denied victory by a 93rd-minute equaliser from ASEC Mimosas in the first leg of their CAF Champions League second-round preliminary tie, while Youcef Belaili’s Esperance de Tunis suffered a 1-0 defeat away to Asswehly.

The Moroccan side appeared on course for an important home win at the Stade d’Honneur de Meknes on Sunday, but had to settle for a draw after conceding in stoppage time.

MAS Fes took the lead in the 31st minute through Noureddine Oussama. Devin Titus created the opening with impressive work while holding off his marker before finding Oussama near the edge of the penalty area. The Moroccan midfielder then sent an unstoppable effort into the right side of the goal beyond Charles Folly.

Rui Almeida’s team held that advantage until the third minute of added time, when ASEC Mimosas levelled. The late setback could prove costly when the teams meet again in Cote d’Ivoire on 25 October, particularly given the away-goals rule.

Esperance de Tunis also face a demanding second leg after losing to Asswehly at the Misurata Stadium in Misrata, Libya.

The only goal of the match came in the 64th minute, leaving Esperance needing to win by two clear goals at Rades on 24 October to reach the group stage.

The defeat ended a difficult away outing for the Tunisian side, who were unable to respond after Asswehly moved in front. Esperance have not missed a CAF Champions League final phase since 2017.