CAF Confederation Cup: Maniema Union begin campaign with commanding win over Azam FC

AS Maniema Union opened their CAF Confederation Cup Group B journey with a composed and assured 2–0 victory against Azam FC, delivering a performance marked by discipline, control and well-timed attacking precision.

The match launched at a lively pace, with both teams showing early intent.

Azam FC pressed high in the opening minutes, while Maniema Union responded with quick transitional play that tested the Tanzanian side’s back line.

Goalkeepers on each end were called into action as the tempo rose, but the Congolese defence maintained clear structure and concentration, preventing Azam from creating any sustained threat.

The breakthrough arrived two minutes before the interval. After a move crafted with patience and sharp interplay, Christian Balako found himself in the right space to steer the ball into the net, giving Maniema Union a deserved lead.

The goal significantly lifted the team’s momentum as they headed into halftime with confidence and a firmer grip on the contest.

Azam FC attempted to reassert themselves after the restart, pushing higher up the pitch and accelerating their play in the final third.

However, the visitors struggled with accuracy at key moments, repeatedly failing to connect the decisive pass or finish needed to trouble the Maniema Union goalkeeper.

Each attempt to shift the rhythm was met with composed defending and timely interceptions from the Congolese side.

As the match entered its final phase, Maniema Union retained control and continued to challenge for every ball with determination.

Their persistence was rewarded in the 85th minute when Chadoma Mukeni struck the team’s second goal, capitalising on a well-timed attacking movement that effectively ended Azam FC’s hopes of a late comeback.

With the 2–0 victory secured, Maniema Union achieved an ideal start to their Confederation Cup campaign, combining tactical discipline with decisive execution in front of goal.

The performance sets a strong foundation for the matches ahead as they look to navigate a competitive Group B with ambition and consistency.