Nigeria’s representative in the CAF Confederation Cup, El-Kanemi Warriors of Maiduguri fought back to earn a 2-2 draw against Moroccan powerhouse Raja Casablanca in the first leg of their CAF Confederation Cup second preliminary round encounter at the Remo Stars Sports Complex in Ikenne on Sunday.
The Nigerian side made an impressive start to the contest, taking the lead in the sixth minute after putting the visitors under pressure during the opening exchanges.
However, Raja Casablanca responded strongly and restored parity in the 23rd minute through Mohammad Abu Zrayq, ensuring both teams headed into the halftime break level at 1-1.
The Moroccan giants returned from the interval with renewed determination and took the lead for the first time shortly after the hour mark. Nigerian-born striker Mathias Oyewusi found the back of the net to put Raja Casablanca ahead and place the visitors in a favourable position.
Despite falling behind, El-Kanemi Warriors remained resilient and continued to push for an equaliser. Their persistence paid off seven minutes before the final whistle when Nnamdi Mejuobi scored to bring the hosts back on level terms and secure a hard-fought 2-2 draw.
The result leaves the tie finely balanced ahead of the decisive second leg, with both teams still in contention for a place in the next round of the competition.
The return leg is scheduled to take place in Casablanca on Friday, October 23, with both sides aiming to secure a place in the next round of the competition.
