El-Kanemi Warriors salvaged a crucial 1-1 draw against Dadje FC in the first leg of their CAF Confederation Cup Preliminary Round clash on Saturday. The match, held at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne, Ogun State, saw a dramatic late equalizer from the Nigerian side, ensuring the contest remains finely poised ahead of the second leg.
The game began with both teams showing intent, but it was Dadje FC who took the lead in the 30th minute.
Bless Salassi capitalized on a defensive lapse to put the Beninese club ahead, leaving the Maiduguri-based El-Kanemi Warriors with an uphill battle.
Despite being a goal down at halftime, El-Kanemi Warriors returned for the second half with renewed determination.
They pressed forward in search of an equalizer, creating several chances but struggling to break down a resolute Dadje defense.
As the clock ticked down, it seemed as though the Nigerian side would leave empty-handed.
However, in the dying moments of the match, Ajiji Samuel stepped up to rescue his team.
His well-timed strike in injury time ensured that El-Kanemi Warriors secured a vital draw, keeping their hopes alive as they prepare for the return leg.
This match marks El-Kanemi Warriors’ third appearance in continental competition, and their first since reaching the semi-finals of the 1993 CAF Cup Winners’ Cup, where they were narrowly defeated by Egyptian giants Al-Ahly.
The Warriors are now looking to build on that history as they aim to advance to the next round of the CAF Confederation Cup.
The result sets up a tantalizing second leg, scheduled for Saturday at Stade de l’Amitié Général Mathieu Kérékou in Cotonou, where both teams will battle for a place in the next round.
With the tie delicately balanced, El-Kanemi Warriors will need to produce a strong performance away from home to progress.
As Nigeria’s representatives in this year’s competition, following their victory in the Nigeria President Federation Cup, El-Kanemi Warriors carry the hopes of their nation.
Their ability to fight back and secure a draw in this first leg will give them confidence as they prepare for the decisive encounter in Cotonou.
The second leg promises to be an intense affair, with both teams aware that a spot in the next round is within reach.
For El-Kanemi Warriors, continuing their journey in the CAF Confederation Cup would not only be a significant achievement but also a testament to their resilience and determination on the continental stage.
