Shooting Stars take narrow half-time lead over CS Sfaxien in CAF Confederation Cup

Shooting Stars hold a 1-0 half-time advantage over Tunisia’s CS Sfaxien in the first preliminary round of the CAF Confederation Cup at the MKO Abiola Stadium in Ibadan on Saturday, 5 September 2026.

The Nigerian side made home advantage count during an intense opening 45 minutes, with Lucky Emmanuel scoring the only goal of the half in the 25th minute.

The result gives Shooting Stars a slender lead at the interval and leaves them in a favourable position as they prepare for the second half of the tie. However, the margin remains narrow, with CS Sfaxien still needing only one goal to draw level.

Known as the Oluyole Warriors, Shooting Stars created the decisive moment midway through the first period when Emmanuel found the breakthrough. His goal gave the hosts the reward for their efforts in a tightly contested opening at the Ibadan venue.

CS Sfaxien, who are also known by the nickname the Ceistes, have attempted to respond since falling behind. The Tunisian visitors have so far been unable to find a way through a compact Shooting Stars defence.

That organisation at the back has allowed the Nigerian team to protect their advantage and reach half-time ahead. The 1-0 scoreline gives the hosts a psychological boost before the final 45 minutes, although CS Sfaxien remain within touching distance of an equaliser.

The Tunisian coaching staff now face the task of making tactical adjustments during the interval. Any changes will be aimed at helping CS Sfaxien break down the home side’s well-structured defensive block and secure an important away equaliser.

For Shooting Stars, the immediate priority will be to preserve their lead after the restart. Their advantage is valuable, but the single-goal difference means the tie remains finely balanced with the second half still to play.

The two sides therefore return from the dressing rooms with contrasting objectives. Shooting Stars will look to build on Emmanuel’s 25th-minute strike and maintain control of the match, while CS Sfaxien must find a response if they are to avoid leaving Ibadan behind at the break and entering the remainder of the contest at a disadvantage.

At half-time, though, it is the Oluyole Warriors who have the upper hand in this first preliminary-round meeting, thanks to Emmanuel’s goal and a disciplined defensive display.