Assigno opener cancelled out as ASCK and ASEC Mimosas reach half-time level in CAF Champions League

ASCK and ASEC Mimosas were locked at 1-1 at half-time in the first leg of their first preliminary-round tie in the CAF Champions League after an eventful opening 45 minutes.

ASCK took the lead in the 20th minute through Enock Assigno. The Togolese forward was played through on goal and found himself one-on-one with ASEC’s Ivorian goalkeeper, Charles Folly Ayayi. Assigno kept his composure in front of goal, placing his finish beyond the goalkeeper to put ASCK ahead.

The early advantage gave ASCK the lead in a match that had already produced an open first half. Assigno’s finish was the first major breakthrough, with the forward making the most of the opportunity created by the pass into his path.

ASEC Mimosas responded before the interval and were rewarded for their reaction in the 39th minute. Souhalio Bamba scored to bring the Ivorian side level, restoring parity six minutes before half-time.

Bamba’s equaliser ensured that ASCK’s advantage lasted less than 20 minutes. The goal also gave ASEC Mimosas a way back into the contest before the two teams headed into the dressing rooms, leaving the tie finely balanced at the break.

The score remained 1-1 after 45 minutes, meaning neither team had gained an advantage in the first leg. ASCK had made the stronger breakthrough through Assigno, but ASEC Mimosas recovered and ended the opening period on level terms after Bamba’s intervention.

The second half will therefore decide which side can take the initiative before the return leg. ASCK will attempt to regain the lead after seeing its early advantage disappear, while ASEC Mimosas will look to complete its comeback by moving in front.

There is still everything to play for after the opening half. The teams have each scored once, with Assigno putting ASCK ahead and Bamba bringing ASEC Mimosas back into the match. The tie remains unresolved as the sides prepare to resume the first leg, with the outcome of the second period set to determine which team can claim the stronger position ahead of the return fixture.