Tusker FC are through to the second preliminary round of the 2026 CAF Confederation Cup after prevailing over Sudanese side Al Ahli Madani with a 3-2 aggregate win in the first round.
Tusker had blown a 2-0 lead during the first leg away at Kigali Pele Stadium last weekend, and they needed nothing less than a favourable result or any kind of victory to secure themselves a spot in the next round.
On Saturday at the Nyayo National Stadium, Crispine Erambo ensured they picked up a crucial 1-0 win with a second-half strike that sealed their passage to the next stage.
Head Coach Julien Mette made structural adjustments to his starting lineup, fielding three centre-backs, including Thomas Teka at right-back, while Aboubakar Doumbia, who has played in the position before, was deployed in midfield alongside Fabian Adikiny and Crispin Erambo.
Tusker FC first tested the opposition at the quarter-hour mark. Aboubakar Doumbia pounced on a loose ball inside the 18-yard box before teeing up Ian Simiyu, who struck the side netting with his weaker left foot.
The visitors would come close to taking the lead 13 minutes later as a long ball from the goalkeeper was chested down by Maaz Kondani for Assan Giba, whose ferocious effort kissed the crossbar before going out for a goal kick.
The first shot on target of the match came five minutes after the restart, with Victor Mbaoma holding up play nicely before setting up Ian Simiyu on the left. However, his effort lacked the power to trouble Mohammed Abdallah, who gathered the ball and conceded a corner to the hosts.
The hosts finally broke the deadlock in the 62nd minute. A sweeping ball from Collins Ochieng’ was met by Crispine Erambo, who looped his effort over Mohammed Abdallah to give Tusker the lead.
The Brewers came close to doubling their advantage a minute later from a set piece, with Victor Mbaoma’s effort going just inches wide. Madani responded immediately through Wagdi Awal, who forced the first save from Perrauld before being substituted moments later.
Neither side fashioned another dangerous opportunity as Tusker held firm to secure their place in the next round, where they will face Singida Black Stars.
More to follow….