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CAF Confederations Cup: Kwara United rally late to trounce holders RS Berkane
By Wale Mustapha
It took Kwara United last 18 second half minutes to achieve a remarkable 3-1 comeback victory over RSB Berkane in the first leg, second round encounter of the CAF Confederations Cup on Sunday.
The Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos witnessed yet another impressive football artistry as the visitors who also doubles as the defending champions took an early lead when Burkina Faso forward Cheick Ouattara stood tall and nod home for the Moroccans.
Kwara United, however, went close to even the score within a minute of finding themselves behind but Chisom Samuel’s effort from edge of the box went wide.
Berkane were also in the mix of another effort that could have put the game far from the reach of Kwara’s comeback but Issofou Dayo flashed wide from close range.
The Moroccans’ keeper, Hamza Hamiani was called to action as he parried wide a rasping shot from Wasiu Jimoh.
Despite series of attacks from the hosts, they couldn’t find the cutting edge as they walked into the dugout with their tails between their legs.
The second half was more purposeful for Kwara United as they took charge of the entire proceedings.
But they had to wait till 72nd minute of the game before they could find a way through Berkane’s defense when Taofeek Ahmed combined well with Issa Gata to finish up a nice team effort.
Kwara went in front for the first time in the game in the 79th minute when bulky forward, Jimoh powered a home a curler from distance.
Just as the match was heading to halt, Kwara United got what could then be a lifeline to secure next round ticket with a glancing header from substitute Barnabas Daniel to make it 3-1 for the hosts.
The result and goals could prove vital for the Coach Muhammed Azeez led side as they are expected to have less work to do in second leg fixture.
