ASC Jaraaf secured a crucial 1-0 victory against East End Lions FC in the first leg of the CAF Confederation Cup preliminary round on Sunday, taking a significant step toward advancing in the competition. The Senegalese side, known for their resilience, managed to hold off their Sierra Leonean hosts at the South Arena Stadium in Bo, with a solitary goal making the difference.
In a tightly contested match, both teams struggled to find the back of the net for most of the game.
The deadlock was finally broken in the 75th minute when Jaraaf’s Pape Souleymane Dione scored the decisive goal.
His strike, coming late in the second half, gave the visitors a slim but vital lead heading into the second leg.
East End Lions, making their debut in the CAF Confederation Cup, showed determination and fought valiantly throughout the match.
Despite their inexperience on the continental stage, the home side created several chances and pressed hard in the final minutes in search of an equalizer.
However, Jaraaf’s defense, marshaled by coach Malick Daf, remained resolute, thwarting all attempts by the Lions to level the score.
The victory puts Jaraaf in a favorable position ahead of the return leg in Thiès, Senegal, where they will look to capitalize on their away goal advantage.
For East End Lions, the narrow defeat leaves them with all to play for as they prepare for the challenge of overturning the deficit on foreign soil.
This win marks an important moment for Jaraaf, who have a storied history in African club competitions.
Their experience and tactical discipline were evident in how they managed the game, particularly in the closing stages, as they weathered a late surge from the Lions.
With this result, the Senegalese club has one foot in the next round, but they will need to maintain their focus and composure in the return fixture to ensure their progression.
The second leg of this preliminary round clash is set to take place next week in Thiès, where Jaraaf will aim to finish the job in front of their home fans.
Meanwhile, East End Lions will be looking to pull off a comeback and continue their journey in the CAF Confederation Cup.
The stage is set for an intriguing encounter, with everything still to play for.
𝐅𝐢𝐧 𝐝𝐮 𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐜𝐡
𝙑𝙞𝙘𝙩𝙤𝙞𝙧𝙚 𝙙𝙪 𝙅𝙖𝙧𝙖𝙖𝙛!
Le Jaraaf entame sa campagne Africaine par une belle victoire (1-0) à l’extérieur contre l’équipe Sierra Léonaise des @EELions .
L’unique but de la rencontre a été marqué par Souleymane Dione (75′).#AscJaraaf pic.twitter.com/sOMOFs7ge2— ASC Jaraaf (@ASCJaraafSn) August 18, 2024
