FC Samartex secured a crucial 1-0 victory over Victoria United in their CAF Champions League debut in Cameroon, setting the stage for their potential advancement in the competition.
The Ghanaian champions, appearing for the first time in Africa’s premier club competition, demonstrated resilience and determination to claim the win.
The match, however, began under unusual circumstances, with a 25-minute delay due to Samartex protesting the eligibility of certain Victoria United players. Players remained in the tunnel well past the scheduled start time before the game eventually kicked off.
Both teams battled for control in a goalless first half, but it was Emmanuel Mamah who broke the deadlock shortly after the break, giving Samartex the lead.
Despite efforts from both sides to alter the scoreline, the Timber Giants held firm, securing a vital away win.
The result leaves Samartex in a strong position as they prepare to host Victoria United in the return leg next week in Ghana, with hopes of advancing to the next round of the competition.
The Samreboi-based club are poised to at least emulate the feat of Medeama SC who last participated in the competition representing Ghana. The Yellow and Mauves who were also making it to the competition for the first time qualified for the Group stage after edging Remo Stars and Horoya.
