CAFCC: Remo Stars subdue ASFAR in faraway Morocco
Sky Blue Stars hold hosts, claim credible away draw
Nigeria’s CAF Confederation Cup debutants Remo Stars proved their mettle by holding Moroccan outfit ASFAR to a 1-1 draw in Rabat in the first leg of their playoff tie. The Sky Blue Stars showed great grit and determination in what was their first ever match on the continent.
With former CD Feirense assistant coach Daniel Ogunmodede back at the helm of affairs, Remo Stars visited ASFAR in their Moulay Abdellah Sports Complex home in Rabat. The visitors were hoping for a positive result against their North African opponents.
In front of a raucous Moroccan crowd, Remo Stars goalkeeper Kayode Bankole was quickly called into action inside five minutes as the home side looked for an early start. Both sides traded blows in the following minutes, but the home side looked on top of proceedings.
ASFAR duly took the lead after 27 minutes through Cape Verdean defender Diney Borges. The 26-year-old finished from close range after a cross was driven into his path in the box.
After conceding the goal, the visitors seemed more energized as they sought ways to breach the home side’s backline. Kayode Bankole had to be on his toes in the Remo Stars goal as ASFAR looked to double their advantage as half-time beckoned.
Five minutes into the second half, Remo Stars found themselves level as debutant Adams Olamilekan headed home following a dangerous corner. Left-back Seun Ogunribide sent in a delicious cross which was gobbled up by the former Lobi Stars man to put the visitors on an equal footing.
ASFAR responded swiftly and Bankole was called into action severally. The Sky Blue Stars goalkeeper saved a superb half-volley from Borges before denying midfielder Zakaria Fati with an outstanding one-handed save. The goalkeeper was clearly the best player on either side as he helped his side leave Morocco with a 1-1 draw.
Kwara United and Rivers United secured impressive home wins and Plateau United played out a draw in Gabon.
Remo Stars have an away goal to protect when they welcome ASFAR to Ikenne for the second leg of their tie. The self-proclaimed “Baby of the NPFL” will hope to make history by reaching the group stage of the competition.
