CAF Confederation Cup: Djoliba AC secure vital away victory over USFA 

Djoliba AC claimed a crucial 1-0 win over USFA in Ouagadougou in the first leg of the final preliminary round of the CAF Confederation Cup, taking a significant step toward the group stage of the competition.

The Malian side endured a testing evening in Burkina Faso, with the home team dominating large spells of the match after a balanced first half that produced few clear chances.

USFA began the second period with greater intensity, forcing Djoliba onto the back foot as they pressed high and created several dangerous moments.

The Burkinabe champions looked determined to make their home advantage count, earning a series of corners and half-chances that were met by a resolute Malian defense and the exceptional form of goalkeeper Wilfried.

The Djoliba shot-stopper proved decisive, pulling off key saves to deny USFA from close range and keeping his side level as the pressure mounted.

Despite their dominance, the hosts struggled to find the cutting edge needed to break through a well-organised back line.

As the clock ticked down, Djoliba appeared to be heading for a hard-fought draw before substitute Kader Kenan produced a moment of brilliance in the 86th minute.

The forward, introduced late in the game, stepped up to take a free-kick from the edge of the box and delivered it perfectly beyond the reach of the goalkeeper to give his team a dramatic late lead.

Kenan’s strike proved to be the decisive moment, lifting the Malian side after a largely defensive performance.

Djoliba then held firm in the closing minutes despite a final scare during stoppage time, when USFA threatened an equaliser but failed to convert their chance.

The result gives Djoliba a narrow but valuable advantage heading into the second leg in Bamako.

A draw in the return fixture would be enough to see them advance to the group stage of the CAF Confederation Cup, while USFA will need a strong response away from home to overturn the deficit.

Djoliba’s discipline, patience, and late efficiency were key to their success in Ouagadougou, and they will look to build on that momentum when the two teams meet again next Sunday at the Mamadou Konaté Stadium.