FC Samartex played out a thrilling 2-2 draw against Moroccan giants Raja Club Athletic in the first leg of the CAF Champions League second preliminary round.
The reigning Ghana Premier League champions welcomed their North African opponents on Sunday, September 15, 2024, at the Accra Sports Stadium.
Raja Club Athletic took an early lead in the 20th minute when Mohammed Azrida headed home from a corner kick.
However, Samartex quickly responded in the 37th minute with a stunning acrobatic goal from Francis Gyetuah to level the score.
Just before the break, Samartex turned the game around as Michael Ephson pounced on a rebound from Isaac Afful’s powerful long-range shot to give the home side a 2-1 advantage.
Despite controlling much of the second half and creating several opportunities, Samartex failed to add to their lead. Raja capitalized on a quick team play and equalized through Mohammed Boulacsout’s clinical finish.
With the first leg ending 2-2, Samartex now faces a daunting task in the return leg at Stade Larbi Zaouli in Casablanca on Saturday, September 21, 2024.
The Ghanaian side must secure victory to qualify for the CAF Champions League group stage in their debut campaign.