Djoliba AC Edge Abia Warriors 2-1 on Aggregate to Advance in CAF Confederation Cup

Malian giants Djoliba AC secured a hard-fought victory at home, defeating Nigerian side Abia Warriors 1-0 in the second leg of their preliminary round tie. The win, played out at the Stade Mamadou Konaté, saw the home team advance to the next phase of the TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup with a 2-1 aggregate scoreline.

Djoliba's progression came on the back of a professional performance in Bamako. A crucial strike ended the hopes of the Nigerian debutants. The home team's defense stood firm throughout the 90 minutes, ensuring the solitary goal was enough to seal their passage.

The tie was finely balanced following the first leg, which ended in a 1-1 draw a week prior in Uyo, Nigeria. In that match, Djoliba AC had secured a vital away goal, which meant Abia Warriors had to win or achieve a high-scoring draw in Bamako to progress. The pressure to score an away goal proved too much for the Nigerian Premier Football League representatives.

Abia Warriors, playing in their first-ever continental campaign, showed moments of brilliance but ultimately failed to break down a resilient Djoliba side known for their continental pedigree. Despite coach Imama Amapakabo’s tactical efforts, the team struggled with their poor away form, managing only one shot on target in the second half.

For Djoliba AC, the victory continues their impressive run and confirms their place in the second preliminary round, where they will now await the winner of the fixture between USFA of Burkina Faso and AS Gbohloé-Su of Togo. The Malian club will be looking to build on this success as they target a spot in the lucrative group stages of the competition.