CAFCC: Hearts of Oak secure a statement win over JS Saoura in Accra
Accra Hearts of Oak recorded a 2-0 victory over Algerian side, JS Saoura in Accra in the first leg of their CAF Confederations Cup last qualifying round of matches.
Salifu Ibrahim and Agyenim-Boateng were on target as Hearts dominated play in either half of the game ensuring the Ghana Premier League champions get the upper hand ahead of the return leg in a week’s time.
The Phobians started the game brilliantly and should have been ahead in the opening 10 minutes but couldn’t capitalise on chances created.
Kofi Kordzi, after a fascinating set of passes by Hearts could not find the back of the net after a fantastic block by the JS Saoura defense before the striker blasted his effort wide.
The persisting nature of Hearts of Oak’s attack paid off with Salifu Ibrahim heading home the lead after a brilliant piece of display and a sweet cross by Daniel Afriyie-Barnieh.
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Hearts of Oak threatened for more but couldn’t double their lead in the first half with JS Saoura struggling to create any meaningful chance in the first 45 minutes of action.
Hearts of Oak started the second half just as they did the first, on the attacking front, beating Saoura for pace, with the U-20 winning star, the centre of everything good for the Phobians.
Samuel Boadu’s side will get the cushion they were looking for on the 71st-minute mark, with Agyenim-Boateng doubling Hearts’ lead.
JS Saoura’s goalkeeper Saidi got sent off on the 73rd minute, receiving a second yellow card as his side were handicapped against a resilient Hearts of Oak side who looked more promising.
Hearts of Oak will now travel to Méridja on 5th December, 2021 full of optimism for the second leg.
The winner of the tie will then progress to the group stages of the CAF Confederations Cup.
