Maniema Union of the Democratic Republic of Congo defeated USM Alger 2–1 on Sunday in the first leg of their CAF Confederation Cup quarter-final, in a match heavily affected by torrential rain in Lubumbashi.
The home side took the lead in the 41st minute when Burkina Faso international Clement Pitroipa calmly converted a penalty, sending goalkeeper Oussama Bencot the wrong way.
USM Alger equalised early in the second half after Ahmed Khaldi scored from the penalty spot, marking his second goal of the continental campaign.
However, Maniema captain Exaucia Moanda restored the lead in the 65th minute, finishing from close range following a free kick to give the Congolese side a valuable advantage.
The match became increasingly difficult as heavy rain flooded the pitch, making passing challenging and forcing players to rely on long clearances. Lightning over the stadium and eight minutes of added time added to the tense finish.
Both teams also had goals ruled out for offside, while Khaldi struck the post with an ambitious effort from near the touchline.
The second leg will be played on March 22 in Algiers, where the overall winner will advance to the semi-finals to face Moroccan side Wydad Casablanca or Olympique Safi.
Source: TRT Africa
