Nigeria’s Enyimba are on the brink of elimination from the CAF Confederation Cup after playing out a 1-1 draw with Egyptian side, Al Masry on Sunday in their fifth game in Group D, Afrosport reports.
The visitors took an early lead in the seventh minute through Mohamed Hashem who capitalised on a defensive mistake.
The People’s Elephants were behind at the break, and restored parity through Ifeanyi Ihemekwele’s header immediately after the restart.
Enyimba goalkeeper Ani Ozoemena was called into action on a couple of occasions, notably in the 68th minute when he saved Mohammed Hamada’s penalty after Divine Ukadike brought down Moshen Salah in the box.
Despite the introduction of former Super Eagles striker Brown Ideye, and experienced forward Bernard Ovoke as well as Kalu Nweke and Somiari Alalibo, the nine-time Nigerian champions failed to get a much-needed victory.
Enyimba have now amassed five points from five matches, and are third on the log, one point behind second-placed Al Masry.
The Nigerian giants must now win their final group game against Zamalek in Egypt next Sunday to stand any chance of reaching the quarter-final, although a result must favour them in the other group game between Al Masry and Black Bulls.
Meanwhile, holders Zamalek advanced to the quarter-finals with a 3-1 win over Black Bulls in Mozambique.
The Egyptian giants remain unbeaten in Group D and lead the standings with 11 points, confirming their progression with one match to spare.
Stellenbosch FC of South Africa also advanced to the quarter-finals with a commanding 2-0 victory over Stade Malien, while Moroccan side RS Berkane held Angola’s Luanda Sul to a 0-0 draw to secure top position in Group B.
USM Alger also secured their spot in the quarter-finals with a hard-fought 2-1 win over Botswana’s Orapa United, just as CS Constantine also confirmed their place in the quarter-finals with a dominant 3-0 victory over Tunisian side CS Sfaxien at the Hamlaoui Stadium.
Final whistle blows on the #TotalEnergiesCAFCC Matchday 5! 🙌
Did you get the result you wanted? pic.twitter.com/cygvkoXBii
— TotalEnergies CAFCL & CAFCC 🏆 (@CAFCLCC) January 12, 2025
In other games played, ASC Jaraaf of Senegal pipped ASEC Mimosas of Ivory Coast 1-0, while Bravos do Maquis of Angola secured a 1-1 draw against Simba SC of Tanzania
