Lobi Stars 2 Mamelodi Sundowns 1: Nigerian champions start CAFCL campaign with a win

The reigning Nigeria Professional Football League champions, Lobi Stars of Markudi have started their 2019 CAF Champions League campaign with a win.

Lobi Stars secured a hard-fought 2-1 win in their first group match against the 2016 CAF Champions League champions, Mamelodi Sundowns at the Nnamdi Azikwe Stadium on Friday.

The visitors took the lead through Anthony Laffor in the 38th minute of the game. While Lobi tried to get the equalizer, Sundowns goalkeeper Kennedy Mweene was always at the right place at the right time to deny the champions.

But the goal eventually came when Yaya Kone stepped up to convert from the spot kick on the stroke of 45 minutes to restore parity for the home team.

Just 7 minutes after the restart of the game, Lobi Stars took the lead through Samuel Mathias Martins.

His 52nd minute strike ensured Lobi Stars secured the maximum points in their first group A game and a win which could help them in a difficult group.

Up next for Lobi Stars is a clash against ASEC Mimosa on the 19th of January.

By: Tope Adefala