At Pachuca, Mexico:
Victor Guzman (29'), Jonathan Urretaviscaya (31'), Franco Jara (69'), and Hirving Lozano (79') each scored once on Tuesday as Pachuca demolished visiting Deportivo Sapirissa 4-0 in game two of their CONCACAF Champions League quarterfinal-round series and ousted the Costa Rican club by that same score on aggregate.
Tuesday, February 28, 2017
AFC Champions League
Eight games were contested in AFC Champions League group-stage play on Tuesday.
GROUP C:
At Tashkent, Uzbekistan:
Omar Abdulrahman scored twice (8, PK-89') as Al-Ain knocked off FC Bunyodkor 3-2 on the road.
At Muscat, Oman:
Omar Al Somah scored the winning goal in the 86th minute as Saudi Arabia's Al-Ahli defeated Iran's Zob Ahan 2-1 in a contest played in Oman due to deteriorating relations between the Saudis and Iranians.
Group C Standings:
1. Ah-Ahli (GP: 2; GD: +3; PTS: 6)
2. Al-Ain (GP: 2; GD: +1; PTS: 4)
3. Zob Ahan (GP: 2; GD: -1; PTS: 1)
4. FC Bunyodkor (GP: 2; GD: -3; PTS: 0)
GROUP D:
At Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates:
Mehdi Taremi scored twice in the waning minutes (81', 90') as Persepolis came from behind to upend Al-Wahda 3-2 on the road.
At Riyadh, Saudi Arabia:
Mohammad Al-Shalhoub delivered the game-winning goal in the fourth minute of second-half stoppage time by successfully converting a penalty kick as Al-Hilal defeated visiting Al-Rayyan 2-1.
Group D Standings:
1. Persepolis (GP: 2; GD: +1; PTS: 4)
2. Al-Hilal (GP: 2; GD: +1; PTS: 4)
3. Al-Rayyan (GP: 2; GD: 0; PTS: 3)
4. Al-Wahda (GP: 2; GD: -2; PTS: 0)
GROUP E:
At Ulsan, South Korea:
Kim In-sung (10', 68') and Mislav Orsic (13', 34') each scored twice as Ulsan Hyundai destroyed the visiting Brisbane Roar 6-0.
At Bangkok, Thailand:
Xisco scored the winning goal in the fourth minute of second-half stoppage time as Muangthong United defeated visiting Kashima Antlers 2-1.
Group E Standings:
1. Muangthong United (GP: 2; GD: +1; PTS: 4)
2. Kashima Antlers (GP: 2; GD: +1; PTS: 3)
3. Ulsan Hyundai (GP: 2; GD: +4; PTS: 3)
4. Brisbane Roar (GP: 2; GD: -6; PTS: 1)
NOTE: Kashima Antlers defeated Ulsan Hyundai 2-0 at home on February 21.
GROUP F:
At Saitama, Japan:
Takahiro Sekine scored what proved to be the game winner in the 15th minute as Urawa Red Diamonds dominated visiting FC Seoul 5-2.
At Shanghai, China:
Oscar scored what proved to be the winning goal in the 17th minute as Shanghai SIPG scored four first-half goals and demolished the visiting Western Sydney Wanderers 5-1.
Group F Standings:
1. Urawa Red Diamonds (GP: 2; GD: +7; PTS: 6)
2. Shanghai SIPG (GP: 2; GD: +5; PTS: 6)
3. FC Seoul (GP: 2; GD: -4; PTS: 0)
4. Western Sydney Wanderers (GP: 2; GD: -8; PTS: 0)
GROUP C:
At Tashkent, Uzbekistan:
Omar Abdulrahman scored twice (8, PK-89') as Al-Ain knocked off FC Bunyodkor 3-2 on the road.
At Muscat, Oman:
Omar Al Somah scored the winning goal in the 86th minute as Saudi Arabia's Al-Ahli defeated Iran's Zob Ahan 2-1 in a contest played in Oman due to deteriorating relations between the Saudis and Iranians.
Group C Standings:
1. Ah-Ahli (GP: 2; GD: +3; PTS: 6)
2. Al-Ain (GP: 2; GD: +1; PTS: 4)
3. Zob Ahan (GP: 2; GD: -1; PTS: 1)
4. FC Bunyodkor (GP: 2; GD: -3; PTS: 0)
GROUP D:
At Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates:
Mehdi Taremi scored twice in the waning minutes (81', 90') as Persepolis came from behind to upend Al-Wahda 3-2 on the road.
At Riyadh, Saudi Arabia:
Mohammad Al-Shalhoub delivered the game-winning goal in the fourth minute of second-half stoppage time by successfully converting a penalty kick as Al-Hilal defeated visiting Al-Rayyan 2-1.
Group D Standings:
1. Persepolis (GP: 2; GD: +1; PTS: 4)
2. Al-Hilal (GP: 2; GD: +1; PTS: 4)
3. Al-Rayyan (GP: 2; GD: 0; PTS: 3)
4. Al-Wahda (GP: 2; GD: -2; PTS: 0)
GROUP E:
At Ulsan, South Korea:
Kim In-sung (10', 68') and Mislav Orsic (13', 34') each scored twice as Ulsan Hyundai destroyed the visiting Brisbane Roar 6-0.
At Bangkok, Thailand:
Xisco scored the winning goal in the fourth minute of second-half stoppage time as Muangthong United defeated visiting Kashima Antlers 2-1.
Group E Standings:
1. Muangthong United (GP: 2; GD: +1; PTS: 4)
2. Kashima Antlers (GP: 2; GD: +1; PTS: 3)
3. Ulsan Hyundai (GP: 2; GD: +4; PTS: 3)
4. Brisbane Roar (GP: 2; GD: -6; PTS: 1)
NOTE: Kashima Antlers defeated Ulsan Hyundai 2-0 at home on February 21.
GROUP F:
At Saitama, Japan:
Takahiro Sekine scored what proved to be the game winner in the 15th minute as Urawa Red Diamonds dominated visiting FC Seoul 5-2.
At Shanghai, China:
Oscar scored what proved to be the winning goal in the 17th minute as Shanghai SIPG scored four first-half goals and demolished the visiting Western Sydney Wanderers 5-1.
Group F Standings:
1. Urawa Red Diamonds (GP: 2; GD: +7; PTS: 6)
2. Shanghai SIPG (GP: 2; GD: +5; PTS: 6)
3. FC Seoul (GP: 2; GD: -4; PTS: 0)
4. Western Sydney Wanderers (GP: 2; GD: -8; PTS: 0)
OFC Champions League: Madang, Magenta Pick Up Tuesday Wins; Lupe o le Soaga Eliminated
Group-stage play in the OFC Champions League resumed on Tuesday with two Group A contests, both taking place at Numa Daly Stadium in Noumea, New Caledonia.
In the opener, Samuel Kini scored the winning goal in the 84th minute as Madang, from Papua New Guinea, defeated Lupe o le Soaga 4-3, eliminating the Samoan club from the tournament.
In the nightcap, Nicolas Marin scored twice (11', 80') as Magenta, from the host nation, doubled up Tahiti's Central Sport 4-2.
Group A Standings:
1. AS Magenta (GP: 2; GD: +3; PTS: 6)
2. Central Sport (GP: 2; GD: +2; PTS: 3)
3. Madang (GP: 2; GD: -2; PTS: 3)
4. z-Lupe o le Soaga (GP: 2; GD: -2; PTS: 0)
z-Eliminated from tournament
In the opener, Samuel Kini scored the winning goal in the 84th minute as Madang, from Papua New Guinea, defeated Lupe o le Soaga 4-3, eliminating the Samoan club from the tournament.
In the nightcap, Nicolas Marin scored twice (11', 80') as Magenta, from the host nation, doubled up Tahiti's Central Sport 4-2.
Group A Standings:
1. AS Magenta (GP: 2; GD: +3; PTS: 6)
2. Central Sport (GP: 2; GD: +2; PTS: 3)
3. Madang (GP: 2; GD: -2; PTS: 3)
4. z-Lupe o le Soaga (GP: 2; GD: -2; PTS: 0)
z-Eliminated from tournament
Monday, February 27, 2017
AFC Champions League
Group-stage play in the AFC Champions League continued on Monday with four games.
GROUP A:
At Tashkent, Uzbekistan:
Salamat Kutybaev (1') and Marat Bikmaev (57') each scored once as Lokomotiv Tashkent blanked visiting Al-Ahli (UAE) 2-0.
At Muscat, Oman:
In a contest played in Oman due to deteriorating relations between Iran and Saudi Arabia, Kaveh Rezaei (1'), Mohsen Karimi (70'), and Leandro Padovani Celin (88') each produced a goal as Esteghlal (Iran) dominated Al-Taawoun (Saudi Arabia) 3-0.
Group A Standings:
1. Esteghlal (GP: 2; GD: +2; PTS: 3)
2. Lokomotiv Tashkent (GP: 2; GD: +1; PTS: 3)
3. Al-Ahli (GP: 2; GD: -1; PTS: 3)
4. Al-Taawoun (GP: 2; GD: -2; PTS: 3)
GROUP B:
At Al-Hasa, Saudi Arabia:
Lekhwiya, with goals courtesy of Youssef El-Arabi (19') and Tae-Hee Nam (86'), gained a 2-2 road draw with Al-Fateh. Nathan Junior (PK-40') and Sayyaf Al Bishi (56') delivered the goals for the hosts.
At Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates:
Aloys Nong's goal in the second-minute stood up as Esteghlal Khuzestan knocked off Al-Jazira 1-0 on the road.
Group B Standings:
1. Esteghlal Khuzestan (GP: 2; GD: +2; PTS: 6)
2. Lekhwiya (GP: 2; GD: +3; PTS: 4)
3. Al-Fateh (GP: 2; GD: -1; PTS: 1)
4. Al-Jazira (GP: 2; GD: -4; PTS: 0)
GROUP A:
At Tashkent, Uzbekistan:
Salamat Kutybaev (1') and Marat Bikmaev (57') each scored once as Lokomotiv Tashkent blanked visiting Al-Ahli (UAE) 2-0.
At Muscat, Oman:
In a contest played in Oman due to deteriorating relations between Iran and Saudi Arabia, Kaveh Rezaei (1'), Mohsen Karimi (70'), and Leandro Padovani Celin (88') each produced a goal as Esteghlal (Iran) dominated Al-Taawoun (Saudi Arabia) 3-0.
Group A Standings:
1. Esteghlal (GP: 2; GD: +2; PTS: 3)
2. Lokomotiv Tashkent (GP: 2; GD: +1; PTS: 3)
3. Al-Ahli (GP: 2; GD: -1; PTS: 3)
4. Al-Taawoun (GP: 2; GD: -2; PTS: 3)
GROUP B:
At Al-Hasa, Saudi Arabia:
Lekhwiya, with goals courtesy of Youssef El-Arabi (19') and Tae-Hee Nam (86'), gained a 2-2 road draw with Al-Fateh. Nathan Junior (PK-40') and Sayyaf Al Bishi (56') delivered the goals for the hosts.
At Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates:
Aloys Nong's goal in the second-minute stood up as Esteghlal Khuzestan knocked off Al-Jazira 1-0 on the road.
Group B Standings:
1. Esteghlal Khuzestan (GP: 2; GD: +2; PTS: 6)
2. Lekhwiya (GP: 2; GD: +3; PTS: 4)
3. Al-Fateh (GP: 2; GD: -1; PTS: 1)
4. Al-Jazira (GP: 2; GD: -4; PTS: 0)
Sunday, February 26, 2017
OFC Champions League
Two games in Group B of the OFC Champions League were contested at Yoshida Stadium in Kone, New Caledonia on Sunday.
In the opener, Nathanael Hailemariam scored twice (45'+1, 69') as New Zealand's Team Wellington dominated Puaikura from the Cook Islands 4-1.
In the nightcap, Malakai Tina's equalizer in the 90th minute enabled Fiji's Ba FC to salvage a 1-1 draw with Hienghene Sport. Bertrand Kai successfully converted a penalty kick for the club from the host country in the 70th minute.
Group B Standings:
1. Team Wellington (GP: 1; GD: +3; PTS: 3)
2. Ba FC (GP: 1; GD: 0; PTS: 1)
3. Hienghene Sport (GP: 1; GD: 0; PTS: 1)
4. Pauikura FC (GP: 1; GD: -3; PTS: 0)
In the opener, Nathanael Hailemariam scored twice (45'+1, 69') as New Zealand's Team Wellington dominated Puaikura from the Cook Islands 4-1.
In the nightcap, Malakai Tina's equalizer in the 90th minute enabled Fiji's Ba FC to salvage a 1-1 draw with Hienghene Sport. Bertrand Kai successfully converted a penalty kick for the club from the host country in the 70th minute.
Group B Standings:
1. Team Wellington (GP: 1; GD: +3; PTS: 3)
2. Ba FC (GP: 1; GD: 0; PTS: 1)
3. Hienghene Sport (GP: 1; GD: 0; PTS: 1)
4. Pauikura FC (GP: 1; GD: -3; PTS: 0)
Saturday, February 25, 2017
OFC Champions League
Group-stage play in the OFC Champions League commenced on Saturday with two contests in Group A.
Both games were played at Stade Numa Daly in Moumea, New Caledonia.
In the opener, Cesar Castillo scored twice (38', 58') as Tahiti's Central Sport outslugged Papua New Guinea's Madang Fox 7-3.
In the nightcap, Yorick Hnautra scored the winning goal in the second minute of first-half stoppage time as Magenta, from the host nation, defeated Samoa's Lupe o le Soaga 2-1.
Group A Standings:
1. Central Sport (GP: 1; GD: +4; PTS: 3)
2. AS Magenta (GP: 1; GD: +1; PTS: 3)
3. Lupe o le Soaga (GD: 1; GD: -1; PTS: 0)
4. Madang Fox (GP: 1; GD: -4; PTS: 0)
Both games were played at Stade Numa Daly in Moumea, New Caledonia.
In the opener, Cesar Castillo scored twice (38', 58') as Tahiti's Central Sport outslugged Papua New Guinea's Madang Fox 7-3.
In the nightcap, Yorick Hnautra scored the winning goal in the second minute of first-half stoppage time as Magenta, from the host nation, defeated Samoa's Lupe o le Soaga 2-1.
Group A Standings:
1. Central Sport (GP: 1; GD: +4; PTS: 3)
2. AS Magenta (GP: 1; GD: +1; PTS: 3)
3. Lupe o le Soaga (GD: 1; GD: -1; PTS: 0)
4. Madang Fox (GP: 1; GD: -4; PTS: 0)
Thursday, February 23, 2017
CONCACAF Champions League: Hoops Blast Arabe Unido In Series Opener
At Frisco, Texas:
Kellyn Acosta scored twice (55', 86') as FC Dallas demolished visiting Arabe Unido 4-0 in Thursday's opening match of a two-game series in the CONCACAF Champions League's quarterfinal round.
Kellyn Acosta scored twice (55', 86') as FC Dallas demolished visiting Arabe Unido 4-0 in Thursday's opening match of a two-game series in the CONCACAF Champions League's quarterfinal round.
Copa Libertadores: The Strongest Proved Way Too Mighty For Union Espanola, Will Join Atletico Tucuman In Group Stage
Two games were played on Thursday as the Copa Libertadores' playoff round came to a close.
At La Paz, Bolivia:
Pablo Escobar delivered a natural hat trick (50', 72', 77') as The Strongest made 97-pound weaklings out of visiting Union Espanola 5-0 in game two of their two-match series and finished off the Chilean club 6-1 on aggregate.
At Tucuman, Argentina:
Rodrigo Aliendro (19'), Cristian Menendez (23'), and Fernando Zampedri (28') each scored a goal in the first half-hour as Atletico Tucuman defeated visiting Junior 3-1 in game two and ousted the Colombian club 3-2 on aggregate.
Here are the four eight-club groups that will make up this year's group stage in the Copa Libertadores.
GROUP ONE:
Atletico Nacional (Colombia; defending champions)
Estudiantes (Argentina)
Barcelona SC (Ecuador)
Botafogo (Brazil)
GROUP TWO:
Santos (Brazil)
Independiente Santa Fe (Colombia)
Sporting Cristal (Peru)
The Strongest (Bolivia)
GROUP THREE:
River Plate (Argentina)
Club Sport Emelec (Ecuador)
Independiente Medellin (Colombia)
FBC Melgar (Peru)
GROUP FOUR:
San Lorenzo (Argentina)
Universidad Catolica (Chile)
Flamengo (Brazil)
Atletico Paranaense (Brazil)
GROUP FIVE:
Penarol (Uruguay)
Palmeiras (Brazil)
Jorge Wilstermann (Bolivia)
Atletico Tucuman (Argentina)
GROUP SIX:
Atletico Mineiro (Brazil)
Club Libertad (Paraguay)
Godoy Cruz (Argentina)
Sport Boys (Bolivia)
GROUP SEVEN:
Club Nacional (Uruguay)
Chapecoense (Brazil)
Lanus (Argentina)
Zulia FC (Venezuela)
GROUP EIGHT:
Gremio (Brazil)
Club Guarani (Paraguay)
Zamora FC (Venezuela)
Deportes Iquique (Chile)
Group-stage play opens on March 7.
At La Paz, Bolivia:
Pablo Escobar delivered a natural hat trick (50', 72', 77') as The Strongest made 97-pound weaklings out of visiting Union Espanola 5-0 in game two of their two-match series and finished off the Chilean club 6-1 on aggregate.
At Tucuman, Argentina:
Rodrigo Aliendro (19'), Cristian Menendez (23'), and Fernando Zampedri (28') each scored a goal in the first half-hour as Atletico Tucuman defeated visiting Junior 3-1 in game two and ousted the Colombian club 3-2 on aggregate.
Here are the four eight-club groups that will make up this year's group stage in the Copa Libertadores.
GROUP ONE:
Atletico Nacional (Colombia; defending champions)
Estudiantes (Argentina)
Barcelona SC (Ecuador)
Botafogo (Brazil)
GROUP TWO:
Santos (Brazil)
Independiente Santa Fe (Colombia)
Sporting Cristal (Peru)
The Strongest (Bolivia)
GROUP THREE:
River Plate (Argentina)
Club Sport Emelec (Ecuador)
Independiente Medellin (Colombia)
FBC Melgar (Peru)
GROUP FOUR:
San Lorenzo (Argentina)
Universidad Catolica (Chile)
Flamengo (Brazil)
Atletico Paranaense (Brazil)
GROUP FIVE:
Penarol (Uruguay)
Palmeiras (Brazil)
Jorge Wilstermann (Bolivia)
Atletico Tucuman (Argentina)
GROUP SIX:
Atletico Mineiro (Brazil)
Club Libertad (Paraguay)
Godoy Cruz (Argentina)
Sport Boys (Bolivia)
GROUP SEVEN:
Club Nacional (Uruguay)
Chapecoense (Brazil)
Lanus (Argentina)
Zulia FC (Venezuela)
GROUP EIGHT:
Gremio (Brazil)
Club Guarani (Paraguay)
Zamora FC (Venezuela)
Deportes Iquique (Chile)
Group-stage play opens on March 7.
Europa League: APOEL, Ajax, Roma, Olympiacos, Gladbach, Lyon, Belgian Trio Advance To Round Of 16; Spurs Eliminated
13 games were contested on Thursday as the Europa League's Round of 16 concluded.
At Nicosia, Cyprus:
Pieros Sotiriou (46') and Giannis Gianniotas (PK-54') each scored once in the second half as APOEL FC overcame their 3-2 road defeat from last week and knocked off visiting Athletic Bilbao 2-0 and knocked out the Spanish club 4-3 on aggregate.
At Amsterdam, Netherlands:
Nick Viergever scored the only goal of both the match and series in the 49th minute as Ajax Amsterdam defeated visiting Legia Warsaw 1-0 in game two and ousted the Polish club by that same score by aggregate.
At Saint Petersburg, Russia:
Isaac Kiese Thelin scored the series-winning goal in the 90th minute as RSC Anderlecht, despite dropping a 3-1 game-two road decision to Zenit Saint Petersburg, won their series on away goals with the aggregate score at 3-3.
At Genk, Belgium:
Alejandro Pozuelo scored the only goal of the match in the 67th minute as KRC Genk defeated visiting Astra Giurgiu 1-0 in game two and eliminated the Romanian club 3-2 on aggregate.
At Rome:
Despite dropping a 1-0 game-two home decision to Villarreal, AS Roma still ousted the Yellow Submarine 4-1 on aggregate.
At Copenhagen, Denmark:
A game-two 0-0 stalemate at home against Ludogorets Razgrad enabled FC Copenhagen to win their two-game series 2-1 on aggregate.
At Kharkiv, Ukraine:
In a match contested at Kharkiv due to the ongoing war-like conditions in Eastern Ukraine, Iago Aspas successfully converted a penalty kick in the opening minute of second-half stoppage time to lift Celta Vigo to a 1-0 game-two road decision against Shakhtar Donetsk to square their two-match series at 1-1 on aggregate. Then, in overtime, Gustavo Cabral delivered the series-winning goal in the 108th minute as the Spanish club took out the Ukrainian club 2-1 on aggregate to advance to the Round of 16.
At Ankara, Turkey:
Karim Ansarifard scored twice (47', 86') as Olympiacos erupted for three second-half goals in dominating Osmanlispor 3-0 on the road in game two and ousted the Turkish club by that same score on aggregate.
At London:
Goals from Harry Kane (OG-20') and Jeremy Perbet (82') enabled KAA Gent to gain a 2-2 game-two road draw with Tottenham Hotspur and a 3-2 series-aggregate victory.
At Prague, Czech Republic:
Dmitry Poloz scored in the 13th minute for FC Rostov as the Russian club drew on the road 1-1 against Sparta Prague in game two and ousted the Czech club 5-1 on aggregate.
At Florence, Italy:
Lars Stindl delivered a hat trick (PK-44', 47', 55') as Borussia Monchengladbach overcame their series-opening home defeat by doubling up Fiorentina 4-2 on the road in game two and winning their series with the Italian club 4-3 on aggregate.
At Lyon, France:
Nabil Fekir produced a hat trick (5', 27', 78') as Lyon delivered a frontier-styled game two 7-1 home fist-beating of AZ Alkmaar and finished off the Dutch club 11-2 on aggregate.
At Istanbul, Turkey:
Vincent Aboubakar (17') and Cenk Tosun (87') each scored once as Besiktas defeated visiting Hapoel Be'er Sheva 2-1 in game two and won their series with the Israeli club 5-2 on aggregate.
At Nicosia, Cyprus:
Pieros Sotiriou (46') and Giannis Gianniotas (PK-54') each scored once in the second half as APOEL FC overcame their 3-2 road defeat from last week and knocked off visiting Athletic Bilbao 2-0 and knocked out the Spanish club 4-3 on aggregate.
At Amsterdam, Netherlands:
Nick Viergever scored the only goal of both the match and series in the 49th minute as Ajax Amsterdam defeated visiting Legia Warsaw 1-0 in game two and ousted the Polish club by that same score by aggregate.
At Saint Petersburg, Russia:
Isaac Kiese Thelin scored the series-winning goal in the 90th minute as RSC Anderlecht, despite dropping a 3-1 game-two road decision to Zenit Saint Petersburg, won their series on away goals with the aggregate score at 3-3.
At Genk, Belgium:
Alejandro Pozuelo scored the only goal of the match in the 67th minute as KRC Genk defeated visiting Astra Giurgiu 1-0 in game two and eliminated the Romanian club 3-2 on aggregate.
At Rome:
Despite dropping a 1-0 game-two home decision to Villarreal, AS Roma still ousted the Yellow Submarine 4-1 on aggregate.
At Copenhagen, Denmark:
A game-two 0-0 stalemate at home against Ludogorets Razgrad enabled FC Copenhagen to win their two-game series 2-1 on aggregate.
At Kharkiv, Ukraine:
In a match contested at Kharkiv due to the ongoing war-like conditions in Eastern Ukraine, Iago Aspas successfully converted a penalty kick in the opening minute of second-half stoppage time to lift Celta Vigo to a 1-0 game-two road decision against Shakhtar Donetsk to square their two-match series at 1-1 on aggregate. Then, in overtime, Gustavo Cabral delivered the series-winning goal in the 108th minute as the Spanish club took out the Ukrainian club 2-1 on aggregate to advance to the Round of 16.
At Ankara, Turkey:
Karim Ansarifard scored twice (47', 86') as Olympiacos erupted for three second-half goals in dominating Osmanlispor 3-0 on the road in game two and ousted the Turkish club by that same score on aggregate.
At London:
Goals from Harry Kane (OG-20') and Jeremy Perbet (82') enabled KAA Gent to gain a 2-2 game-two road draw with Tottenham Hotspur and a 3-2 series-aggregate victory.
At Prague, Czech Republic:
Dmitry Poloz scored in the 13th minute for FC Rostov as the Russian club drew on the road 1-1 against Sparta Prague in game two and ousted the Czech club 5-1 on aggregate.
At Florence, Italy:
Lars Stindl delivered a hat trick (PK-44', 47', 55') as Borussia Monchengladbach overcame their series-opening home defeat by doubling up Fiorentina 4-2 on the road in game two and winning their series with the Italian club 4-3 on aggregate.
At Lyon, France:
Nabil Fekir produced a hat trick (5', 27', 78') as Lyon delivered a frontier-styled game two 7-1 home fist-beating of AZ Alkmaar and finished off the Dutch club 11-2 on aggregate.
At Istanbul, Turkey:
Vincent Aboubakar (17') and Cenk Tosun (87') each scored once as Besiktas defeated visiting Hapoel Be'er Sheva 2-1 in game two and won their series with the Israeli club 5-2 on aggregate.
Wednesday, February 22, 2017
Copa Libertadores: Atletico Paranaense, Botafogo Advance To Group Stage
The playoff round for Copa Libertadores group-stage berths resumed on Wednesday with two games.
At Capiata, Paraguay:
Lucho Gonzalez scored the only goal of the match in the 11th minute as Atletico Paranaense defeated Deportivo Capiata 1-0 on the road in game two and won their series with the Paraguayan club 4-3 on aggregate.
At Asuncion, Paraguay:
After Club Olimpia took game two 1-0 at home in regulation to deadlock the series at 1-1 on aggregate, and with overtime dispensed with, Fernando Camilo Farias, Rodrigo Pimpao, and Victor Luis converted their spot kicks as Botafogo of Brazil won the penalty-kick shootout 3-1 to advance to the group stage.
At Capiata, Paraguay:
Lucho Gonzalez scored the only goal of the match in the 11th minute as Atletico Paranaense defeated Deportivo Capiata 1-0 on the road in game two and won their series with the Paraguayan club 4-3 on aggregate.
At Asuncion, Paraguay:
After Club Olimpia took game two 1-0 at home in regulation to deadlock the series at 1-1 on aggregate, and with overtime dispensed with, Fernando Camilo Farias, Rodrigo Pimpao, and Victor Luis converted their spot kicks as Botafogo of Brazil won the penalty-kick shootout 3-1 to advance to the group stage.
CONCACAF Champions League: Red Bulls And Caps Draw In Series Opener; Tigres And Pumas Likewise In Mexican Cat Fight
Two games were contested Wednesday in the quarterfinal round of the CONCACAF Champions League.
At Harrison, New Jersey:
Bradley Wright-Phillips' equalizer in the 62nd minute enabled the New York Red Bulls to salvage a series-opening 1-1 home draw with the Vancouver Whitecaps. Kekuta Manneh scored for the guests in the 39th minute.
At San Nicolas de los Garza, Mexico:
Matias Britos's equalizer in the 62nd minute lifted UNAM Pumas to a series-opening 1-1 road draw with Tigres. Eduardo Vargas scored for the hosts at 41 minutes.
At Harrison, New Jersey:
Bradley Wright-Phillips' equalizer in the 62nd minute enabled the New York Red Bulls to salvage a series-opening 1-1 home draw with the Vancouver Whitecaps. Kekuta Manneh scored for the guests in the 39th minute.
At San Nicolas de los Garza, Mexico:
Matias Britos's equalizer in the 62nd minute lifted UNAM Pumas to a series-opening 1-1 road draw with Tigres. Eduardo Vargas scored for the hosts at 41 minutes.
UEFA Champions League: Juve, Sevilla Grab Series Openers
The final two series in the UEFA Champions League's Round of 16 is set to open on Wednesday with the hosts listed first and kickoff times set for 11:45 AM Pacific Time.
At Porto, Portugal:
Marko Pjaca (72', that's him here, celebrating) and Dani Alves (74') each scored a goal two minutes apart in the second half as Juventus defeated ten-man FC Porto 2-0 on the road in the opening match of their two-game series.
EPA photo by Estela Silva
At Seville, Spain:
Pablo Sarabia (25') and Joaquin (Don't Call Me Chick) Correa (62') each scored once in Sevilla's 2-1 series-opening win over Leicester City. Jamie Vardy (that's him here celebrating) kept the Foxes alive in the series with his goal in the 73rd minute.
Photo from ESPN FC website
At Porto, Portugal:
Marko Pjaca (72', that's him here, celebrating) and Dani Alves (74') each scored a goal two minutes apart in the second half as Juventus defeated ten-man FC Porto 2-0 on the road in the opening match of their two-game series.
EPA photo by Estela Silva
At Seville, Spain:
Pablo Sarabia (25') and Joaquin (Don't Call Me Chick) Correa (62') each scored once in Sevilla's 2-1 series-opening win over Leicester City. Jamie Vardy (that's him here celebrating) kept the Foxes alive in the series with his goal in the 73rd minute.
Photo from ESPN FC website
Europa League: Red Devils, Krasnodar, Royal Blues Advance To Round of 16
The second half of the Europa League's Round of 32 commenced on Wednesday with three games.
At Saint-Etienne, France:
Henrikh Mkhitaryan scored the only goal of the match in the 17th minute as Manchester United defeated Saint-Etienne 1-0 on the road in game two and won their series 4-0 on aggregate.
At Istanbul, Turkey:
Fyodor Smolov's goal in the seventh minute helped FC Krasnodar gain a 1-1 game-two road deadlock with Fenerbahce and oust the Yellow Canaries 2-1 on aggregate.
At Gelsenkirchen, Germany:
Alessandro Schopf scored in the 23rd minute to help FC Schalke gain a 1-1 game-two home draw with PAOK FC, good enough for the Royal Blues to eliminate the Greek club 4-1 on aggregate.
At Saint-Etienne, France:
Henrikh Mkhitaryan scored the only goal of the match in the 17th minute as Manchester United defeated Saint-Etienne 1-0 on the road in game two and won their series 4-0 on aggregate.
At Istanbul, Turkey:
Fyodor Smolov's goal in the seventh minute helped FC Krasnodar gain a 1-1 game-two road deadlock with Fenerbahce and oust the Yellow Canaries 2-1 on aggregate.
At Gelsenkirchen, Germany:
Alessandro Schopf scored in the 23rd minute to help FC Schalke gain a 1-1 game-two home draw with PAOK FC, good enough for the Royal Blues to eliminate the Greek club 4-1 on aggregate.
AFC Champions League
AFC Champions League group-stage play continued with four Wednesday games.
GROUP G:
At Kawasaki, Japan:
Shogo Taniguchi's own goal in the 23rd minute lifted Suwon Samsung Bluewings to a 1-1 road draw with Kawasaki Frontale. Yu Kobayashi scored for the hosts in the 11th minute.
At Guangzhou, China:
Wang Shangyuan (22', 85') and Liao Lisheng (33', 47') each scored twice, each tallying once in each half, as Guangzhou Evergrande annihilated the Eastern Sports Club from Hong Kong 7-0.
Group G Standings:
1. Guangzhou Evergrande (GP: 1; GD: +7; PTS: 3)
2. Suwon Samsung Bluewings (GP: 1; GD: 0; PTS; 1)
3. Kawasaki Frontale (GP: 1; GD: 0; PTS; 1)
4. Eastern Sports Club (GP: 1; GD: -7; PTS: 0)
GROUP H:
At Adelaide, Australia:
Shun Nagasawa (21'), Yasuyuki Konno (45'+1), and Dylan McGowan (OG-81') each scored once as Gamba Osaka dominated Adelaide United 3-0 on the road.
At Seogwipo, South Korea:
Ramires scored the only goal of the match in the 90th minute as Jiangsu Suning knocked off Jeju United 1-0 on the road.
Group H Standings:
1. Gamba Osaka (GP: 1; GD: +3; PTS: 3)
2. Jiangsu Suning (GP: 1; GD: +1; PTS: 3)
3. Jeju United (GP: 1; GD: -1; PTS: 0)
4. Adelaide United (GP: 1; GD: -3; PTS: 0)
GROUP G:
At Kawasaki, Japan:
Shogo Taniguchi's own goal in the 23rd minute lifted Suwon Samsung Bluewings to a 1-1 road draw with Kawasaki Frontale. Yu Kobayashi scored for the hosts in the 11th minute.
At Guangzhou, China:
Wang Shangyuan (22', 85') and Liao Lisheng (33', 47') each scored twice, each tallying once in each half, as Guangzhou Evergrande annihilated the Eastern Sports Club from Hong Kong 7-0.
Group G Standings:
1. Guangzhou Evergrande (GP: 1; GD: +7; PTS: 3)
2. Suwon Samsung Bluewings (GP: 1; GD: 0; PTS; 1)
3. Kawasaki Frontale (GP: 1; GD: 0; PTS; 1)
4. Eastern Sports Club (GP: 1; GD: -7; PTS: 0)
GROUP H:
At Adelaide, Australia:
Shun Nagasawa (21'), Yasuyuki Konno (45'+1), and Dylan McGowan (OG-81') each scored once as Gamba Osaka dominated Adelaide United 3-0 on the road.
At Seogwipo, South Korea:
Ramires scored the only goal of the match in the 90th minute as Jiangsu Suning knocked off Jeju United 1-0 on the road.
Group H Standings:
1. Gamba Osaka (GP: 1; GD: +3; PTS: 3)
2. Jiangsu Suning (GP: 1; GD: +1; PTS: 3)
3. Jeju United (GP: 1; GD: -1; PTS: 0)
4. Adelaide United (GP: 1; GD: -3; PTS: 0)
Tuesday, February 21, 2017
CONCACAF Champions League: Series-Opening Goose Eggs For Saprissa And Pachuca As Quarterfinals Open
At Tibas, Costa Rica:
Deportivo Saprissa and visiting Pachuca battled to a series-opening 0-0 stalemate on Tuesday as the quarterfinal round of the CONCACAF Champions League commenced.
Deportivo Saprissa and visiting Pachuca battled to a series-opening 0-0 stalemate on Tuesday as the quarterfinal round of the CONCACAF Champions League commenced.
UEFA Champions League: Citizens, Mattress Makers Take Series Openers
The UEFA Champions League's Round of 16 resumed with two games on Tuesday.
At Manchester, England:
Sergio Aguero scored twice (58', 71') as Manchester City battled back from a pair of one-goal deficits to upend visiting AS Monaco 5-3 in the opening contest of their two-game series. Shown here are the happy Citizens celebrating.
Getty Images photo
At Leverkusen, Germany:
Kevin Gameiro's successfully-converted penalty kick in the 59th minute proved to be the game winner as Atletico Madrid knocked off Bayer Leverkusen 4-2 in the opening match of their two-game series. Shown here is Fernando Torres, who scored the Mattress Makers' fourth goal in the 86th minute.
Associated Press photo by Martin Meissner
At Manchester, England:
Sergio Aguero scored twice (58', 71') as Manchester City battled back from a pair of one-goal deficits to upend visiting AS Monaco 5-3 in the opening contest of their two-game series. Shown here are the happy Citizens celebrating.
Getty Images photo
At Leverkusen, Germany:
Kevin Gameiro's successfully-converted penalty kick in the 59th minute proved to be the game winner as Atletico Madrid knocked off Bayer Leverkusen 4-2 in the opening match of their two-game series. Shown here is Fernando Torres, who scored the Mattress Makers' fourth goal in the 86th minute.
Associated Press photo by Martin Meissner
AFC Champions League
Group-stage play in the AFC Champions League continued on Tuesday with eight games.
GROUP C:
At Al Ain, United Arab Emirates:
Mohamed Ismail Ahmed's equalizer in the 76th minute enabled Al-Ain to salvage a 1-1 home draw with Zob Ahan. Jerry Bengston scored for the Iranian club in the 57th minute.
At Jeddah, Saudi Arabia:
Omar Al Somah (13') and Salman Al Moasher (53') each scored once as Al-Ahli blanked visiting FC Bunyodkor 2-0.
Group C Standings:
1. Al-Ahli (GP: 1; GD: +2; PTS: 3) A
2. Zob Ahan (GP: 1; GD: 0; PTS: 1)
3. Al-Ain (GP: 1; GD: 0; PTS: 1)
4. FC Bunyodkor (GP: 1; GD: -2; PTS: 0)
GROUP D:
At Muscat, Oman:
In a match played in Oman due to the deteriorating relations between Saudi Arabia and Iran, Carlos Eduardo's 82nd-minute equalizer lifted Saudi Arabia's Al-Hilal to a 1-1 draw with Iran's Persepolis, whose goal came in the 68th minute from Moshen Mosalman.
At Doha, Qatar:
Victor Caceres scored the winning goal in the 60th minute as Al-Rayyan defeated visiting Al-Wahda 2-1.
Group D Standings:
1. Al-Rayyan (GP: 1; GD: +1; PTS: 3)
2. Al-Hilal (GP: 1; GD: 0; PTS: 1)
3. Persepolis (GP: 1; GD: 0; PTS: 1)
4. Al-Wahda (GP: 1; GD: -1; PTS: 0)
GROUP E:
At Kashima, Japan:
Mu Kanazaki (64') and Yuma Suzuki (82') each scored once as Kashima Antlers blanked visiting Ulsan Hyundai 2-0.
At Brisbane, Australia:
Thailand's Muangthong United held hosts Brisbane Roar to a 0-0 stalemate.
Group E Standings:
1. Kashima Antlers (GP: 1; GD: +2; PTS: 3)
2. Brisbane Roar (GP: 1; GD: 0; PTS: 1)
3. Muangthong United (GP: 1; GD: 0; PTS: 1)
4. Ulsan Hyundai (GP: 1; GD: -2; PTS: 0)
GROUP F:
At Sydney, Australia:
Shinzo Koroki (56'), Tadanari Lee (58'), Tomoaki Makino (68'), and Rafael Silva (86') each scored once as Urawa Red Diamonds demolished the Western Sydney Wanderers 4-0 on the road.
At Seoul, South Korea:
Hulk scored the only goal of the match in the 53rd minute as Shanghai SIPG knocked off FC Seoul 1-0 on the road.
Group F Standings:
1. Urawa Red Diamonds (GP: 1; GD: +4; PTS: 3)
2. Shanghai SIPG (GP: 1: GD: +1; PTS: 3)
3. FC Seoul (GP: 1; GD: -1; PTS: 0)
4. Western Sydney Wanderers (GP: 1; GD: -4; PTS: 0)
GROUP C:
At Al Ain, United Arab Emirates:
Mohamed Ismail Ahmed's equalizer in the 76th minute enabled Al-Ain to salvage a 1-1 home draw with Zob Ahan. Jerry Bengston scored for the Iranian club in the 57th minute.
At Jeddah, Saudi Arabia:
Omar Al Somah (13') and Salman Al Moasher (53') each scored once as Al-Ahli blanked visiting FC Bunyodkor 2-0.
Group C Standings:
1. Al-Ahli (GP: 1; GD: +2; PTS: 3) A
2. Zob Ahan (GP: 1; GD: 0; PTS: 1)
3. Al-Ain (GP: 1; GD: 0; PTS: 1)
4. FC Bunyodkor (GP: 1; GD: -2; PTS: 0)
GROUP D:
At Muscat, Oman:
In a match played in Oman due to the deteriorating relations between Saudi Arabia and Iran, Carlos Eduardo's 82nd-minute equalizer lifted Saudi Arabia's Al-Hilal to a 1-1 draw with Iran's Persepolis, whose goal came in the 68th minute from Moshen Mosalman.
At Doha, Qatar:
Victor Caceres scored the winning goal in the 60th minute as Al-Rayyan defeated visiting Al-Wahda 2-1.
Group D Standings:
1. Al-Rayyan (GP: 1; GD: +1; PTS: 3)
2. Al-Hilal (GP: 1; GD: 0; PTS: 1)
3. Persepolis (GP: 1; GD: 0; PTS: 1)
4. Al-Wahda (GP: 1; GD: -1; PTS: 0)
GROUP E:
At Kashima, Japan:
Mu Kanazaki (64') and Yuma Suzuki (82') each scored once as Kashima Antlers blanked visiting Ulsan Hyundai 2-0.
At Brisbane, Australia:
Thailand's Muangthong United held hosts Brisbane Roar to a 0-0 stalemate.
Group E Standings:
1. Kashima Antlers (GP: 1; GD: +2; PTS: 3)
2. Brisbane Roar (GP: 1; GD: 0; PTS: 1)
3. Muangthong United (GP: 1; GD: 0; PTS: 1)
4. Ulsan Hyundai (GP: 1; GD: -2; PTS: 0)
GROUP F:
At Sydney, Australia:
Shinzo Koroki (56'), Tadanari Lee (58'), Tomoaki Makino (68'), and Rafael Silva (86') each scored once as Urawa Red Diamonds demolished the Western Sydney Wanderers 4-0 on the road.
At Seoul, South Korea:
Hulk scored the only goal of the match in the 53rd minute as Shanghai SIPG knocked off FC Seoul 1-0 on the road.
Group F Standings:
1. Urawa Red Diamonds (GP: 1; GD: +4; PTS: 3)
2. Shanghai SIPG (GP: 1: GD: +1; PTS: 3)
3. FC Seoul (GP: 1; GD: -1; PTS: 0)
4. Western Sydney Wanderers (GP: 1; GD: -4; PTS: 0)
Monday, February 20, 2017
AFC Champions League: Group-Stage Play Opens
Four games were played on Monday as group-stage play in the AFC Champions League commenced.
Group A:
At Buraidah, Saudi Arabia:
Talal Al-Absi scored the only goal of the match in the 67th minute as Al-Taawoun defeated visiting Lokomotiv Tashkent 1-0.
At Dubai, United Arab Emirates:
Al-Ahli, with Makhete Diop scoring twice (45'+1, 90') defeated visiting Esteghlal 2-1.
Group A Standings:
1. Al-Ahli (GP: 1; GD: +1; PTS: 3)
2. Al-Taawoun (GP: 1; GD: +1; PTS: 3)
3. Esteghlal (GP: 1; GD: -1; PTS: 0)
4. Lokomotiv Tashkent (GP: 1; GD: -1; PTS: 0)
GROUP B:
At Muscat, Oman:
In a match played in Oman due to deteriorating relations between Iran and Saudi Arabia, Abolfazi Alaei scored the game's lone goal in the 80th minute as Iran's Esteghlal Khuzestan defeated the Saudis' Al-Fateh 1-0.
At Doha, Qatar:
Youssef Al-Arabi scored twice (11', 90') in Lekhwiya's 2-1 home win over Al-Jazira.
Group B Standings:
1. Lekhwiya (GP: 1; GD: +1; PTS: 3)
2. Esteghlal Khuzestan (GP: 1; GD: +1; PTS: 3)
3. Al-Fateh (GP: 1; GD: -1; PTS: 0)
4. Al-Jazira (GP: 1; GD: -1; PTS: 0)
Group A:
At Buraidah, Saudi Arabia:
Talal Al-Absi scored the only goal of the match in the 67th minute as Al-Taawoun defeated visiting Lokomotiv Tashkent 1-0.
At Dubai, United Arab Emirates:
Al-Ahli, with Makhete Diop scoring twice (45'+1, 90') defeated visiting Esteghlal 2-1.
Group A Standings:
1. Al-Ahli (GP: 1; GD: +1; PTS: 3)
2. Al-Taawoun (GP: 1; GD: +1; PTS: 3)
3. Esteghlal (GP: 1; GD: -1; PTS: 0)
4. Lokomotiv Tashkent (GP: 1; GD: -1; PTS: 0)
GROUP B:
At Muscat, Oman:
In a match played in Oman due to deteriorating relations between Iran and Saudi Arabia, Abolfazi Alaei scored the game's lone goal in the 80th minute as Iran's Esteghlal Khuzestan defeated the Saudis' Al-Fateh 1-0.
At Doha, Qatar:
Youssef Al-Arabi scored twice (11', 90') in Lekhwiya's 2-1 home win over Al-Jazira.
Group B Standings:
1. Lekhwiya (GP: 1; GD: +1; PTS: 3)
2. Esteghlal Khuzestan (GP: 1; GD: +1; PTS: 3)
3. Al-Fateh (GP: 1; GD: -1; PTS: 0)
4. Al-Jazira (GP: 1; GD: -1; PTS: 0)
Sunday, February 19, 2017
CAF Champions League
The CAF Champions League's qualifying round concluded on Sunday with 15 games.
At Brazzaville, Republic of the Congo:
Despite dropping a 1-0 game-two road decision to Diables Noirs, Burkina Faso's Rail Club du Kadiogo won their series with the club from the Republic of the Congo 3-1 on aggregate.
At Port Harcourt, Nigeria:
Rivers United, with Bernard Ovoke (PK-27', PK-60') and Esosa Igbinoba (56', 79') each scoring twice, demolished visiting AS Real Bamako from Mali 4-0 in game two and won their series by that same score on aggregate.
At Conakry, Guinea:
A 2-1 home victory over US Goree enabled Horoya to oust the Senegalese club by that same score on aggregate. Kile Bangoura scored the game (and series) winning goal in the 79th minute by successfully converting a penalty kick.
At Tunis, Tunisia:
In a match contested in Tunisia due to security concerns in Libya, Al-Ahli Tripoli blanked visiting Wa All-Stars 2-0 in game two and ousted the Ghanaian club 5-1 on aggregate. Moayad Allafi (2') and Anis Saltu (64') each scored once for the Libyan club.
At Luanda, Angola:
Despite dropping a 2-1 game-two road decision to CD Primeiro de Augusto, the Kampala City City Authority from Uganda, with the aggregate score at 2-2, advanced to the first round proper on away goals. Geoffrey Sserunkuma scored the pivotal series-winning goal in the 21st minute for the Ugandan club.
At Bujumbura, Burundi:
CF Mounana from Gabon defeated Vital'O 1-0 on the road in game two and won their series 3-0 on aggregate. Junior Mensah scored for the Gabonese club in the 48th minute.
At Bamako, Mali:
After dropping a 1-0 game-two regulation decision on the road to Stade Malien which deadlocked the series at 1-1 on aggregagte (and with overtime dispensed with), Liberia's Barrack Young Controllers won the penalty-kick shootout 7-6 to advance to the first round.
At Beira, Mozambique:
Ferroviario Beira overcame their series-opening defeat with a 3-1 game-two home triumph over Zimazoto and ousted the club from Zanzibar 4-3 on aggregate. Gil Babo Atoy scored the series-winning goal on the 61st minute.
At Enugu, Nigeria:
Despite being held to a game-two 0-0 home stalemate by Algeria's JS Saoura, Enugu Rangers, with the aggregate score at 1-1, advanced on away goals.
At Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo:
AS Vita Club, with Daddy Bironi Etekiama scoring twice (58', 63'), defeated Swaziland's Royal Leopards 3-1 at home in game two and won their series 4-1 on aggregate.
At Abidjan, Ivory Coast:
A game-two 0-0 road stalemate enabled Gambia Ports Authority to eliminate Sewe Sport 1-0 on aggregate.
At Harare, Zimbabwe:
Caps United, with goals courtesy of Simba Nhivi (51') and Ronald Chitiyo (55'), took the second game of their series 2-1 at home against Lioli and ousted the club from Lesotho by that very same score on aggregate.
At Addis Ababa, Ethiopia:
Saint George dominated visiting Cote d'Or from Seychelles 3-0 in game two and handily won their two-match set 5-0 on aggregate. Saladin Said (9'), Aschalew Tamene (30'), and Adane Girma (PK-38') each delivered a first-half goal for the Ethiopian club.
At Douala, Cameroon:
Despite dropping a 2-1 game-two road decision to UMS de Loum, AC Leopards from the Republic of the Congo, with the aggregate score at 2-2, won their series thanks to the away-goals rule. Winston Kalengo scored the series-winning goal for the guests in the 53rd minute.
At Curepipe, Mauritius:
A 2-1 game-two home win sent AS Port-Louis 2000 to a 3-2 aggregate-series victory over Kenya's Tusker FC. Ephrem Guikan scored twice in the waning minutes (84', 88')for the hosts.
Here are the match-ups for the first round proper of the CAF Champions League, with the match-one hosts listed first:
USM Alger (Algeria) vs. Rail Club du Kadiogo (Burkina Faso)
Rivers United (Nigeria) vs. Al-Merrikh (Sudan)
Etoile du Sahei (Tunisia) vs. AS Tanda (Ivory Coast)
Esperance de Tunis (Tunisia) vs. Horoya (Guinea)
Al-Ahli Tripoli (Libya) vs. FUS Rabat (Morocco)
Mamelodi Sundowns (South Africa; defending champions) vs. Kampala Capital City Authority (Uganda)
Wydad Casablanca (Morocco) vs. CF Mounana (Gabon)
Young Africans (Tanzania) vs. Zanaco (Zambia)
Ferroviario Beira (Mozambique) vs. Barrack Young Controllers (Liberia)
Zamalek (Egypt) vs. Enugu Rangers (Nigeria)
Gambia Ports Authority (The Gambia) vs. AS Vita Club (Democratic Republic of the Congo)
Coton Sport (Cameroon) vs. CNaPS Sport (Madagascar)
Al-Ahly (Egypt) vs. Bidvest Wits (South Africa)
TP Mazembe (Democratic Republic of the Congo) vs. CAPS United (Zimbabwe)
AC Leopards (Republic of the Congo) vs. Saint George (Ethiopia)
Al-Hilal (Sudan) vs. AS Port-Louis 2000 (Mauritius)
NOTE: Due to security concerns in Libya, clubs from Libya cannot play their contests in their own country.
The two-game series are set to start the weekend of March 10-12 and conclude the following weekend, with the winners advancing to the group stage, expanded this year from eight to sixteen clubs.
At Brazzaville, Republic of the Congo:
Despite dropping a 1-0 game-two road decision to Diables Noirs, Burkina Faso's Rail Club du Kadiogo won their series with the club from the Republic of the Congo 3-1 on aggregate.
At Port Harcourt, Nigeria:
Rivers United, with Bernard Ovoke (PK-27', PK-60') and Esosa Igbinoba (56', 79') each scoring twice, demolished visiting AS Real Bamako from Mali 4-0 in game two and won their series by that same score on aggregate.
At Conakry, Guinea:
A 2-1 home victory over US Goree enabled Horoya to oust the Senegalese club by that same score on aggregate. Kile Bangoura scored the game (and series) winning goal in the 79th minute by successfully converting a penalty kick.
At Tunis, Tunisia:
In a match contested in Tunisia due to security concerns in Libya, Al-Ahli Tripoli blanked visiting Wa All-Stars 2-0 in game two and ousted the Ghanaian club 5-1 on aggregate. Moayad Allafi (2') and Anis Saltu (64') each scored once for the Libyan club.
At Luanda, Angola:
Despite dropping a 2-1 game-two road decision to CD Primeiro de Augusto, the Kampala City City Authority from Uganda, with the aggregate score at 2-2, advanced to the first round proper on away goals. Geoffrey Sserunkuma scored the pivotal series-winning goal in the 21st minute for the Ugandan club.
At Bujumbura, Burundi:
CF Mounana from Gabon defeated Vital'O 1-0 on the road in game two and won their series 3-0 on aggregate. Junior Mensah scored for the Gabonese club in the 48th minute.
At Bamako, Mali:
After dropping a 1-0 game-two regulation decision on the road to Stade Malien which deadlocked the series at 1-1 on aggregagte (and with overtime dispensed with), Liberia's Barrack Young Controllers won the penalty-kick shootout 7-6 to advance to the first round.
At Beira, Mozambique:
Ferroviario Beira overcame their series-opening defeat with a 3-1 game-two home triumph over Zimazoto and ousted the club from Zanzibar 4-3 on aggregate. Gil Babo Atoy scored the series-winning goal on the 61st minute.
At Enugu, Nigeria:
Despite being held to a game-two 0-0 home stalemate by Algeria's JS Saoura, Enugu Rangers, with the aggregate score at 1-1, advanced on away goals.
At Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo:
AS Vita Club, with Daddy Bironi Etekiama scoring twice (58', 63'), defeated Swaziland's Royal Leopards 3-1 at home in game two and won their series 4-1 on aggregate.
At Abidjan, Ivory Coast:
A game-two 0-0 road stalemate enabled Gambia Ports Authority to eliminate Sewe Sport 1-0 on aggregate.
At Harare, Zimbabwe:
Caps United, with goals courtesy of Simba Nhivi (51') and Ronald Chitiyo (55'), took the second game of their series 2-1 at home against Lioli and ousted the club from Lesotho by that very same score on aggregate.
At Addis Ababa, Ethiopia:
Saint George dominated visiting Cote d'Or from Seychelles 3-0 in game two and handily won their two-match set 5-0 on aggregate. Saladin Said (9'), Aschalew Tamene (30'), and Adane Girma (PK-38') each delivered a first-half goal for the Ethiopian club.
At Douala, Cameroon:
Despite dropping a 2-1 game-two road decision to UMS de Loum, AC Leopards from the Republic of the Congo, with the aggregate score at 2-2, won their series thanks to the away-goals rule. Winston Kalengo scored the series-winning goal for the guests in the 53rd minute.
At Curepipe, Mauritius:
A 2-1 game-two home win sent AS Port-Louis 2000 to a 3-2 aggregate-series victory over Kenya's Tusker FC. Ephrem Guikan scored twice in the waning minutes (84', 88')for the hosts.
Here are the match-ups for the first round proper of the CAF Champions League, with the match-one hosts listed first:
USM Alger (Algeria) vs. Rail Club du Kadiogo (Burkina Faso)
Rivers United (Nigeria) vs. Al-Merrikh (Sudan)
Etoile du Sahei (Tunisia) vs. AS Tanda (Ivory Coast)
Esperance de Tunis (Tunisia) vs. Horoya (Guinea)
Al-Ahli Tripoli (Libya) vs. FUS Rabat (Morocco)
Mamelodi Sundowns (South Africa; defending champions) vs. Kampala Capital City Authority (Uganda)
Wydad Casablanca (Morocco) vs. CF Mounana (Gabon)
Young Africans (Tanzania) vs. Zanaco (Zambia)
Ferroviario Beira (Mozambique) vs. Barrack Young Controllers (Liberia)
Zamalek (Egypt) vs. Enugu Rangers (Nigeria)
Gambia Ports Authority (The Gambia) vs. AS Vita Club (Democratic Republic of the Congo)
Coton Sport (Cameroon) vs. CNaPS Sport (Madagascar)
Al-Ahly (Egypt) vs. Bidvest Wits (South Africa)
TP Mazembe (Democratic Republic of the Congo) vs. CAPS United (Zimbabwe)
AC Leopards (Republic of the Congo) vs. Saint George (Ethiopia)
Al-Hilal (Sudan) vs. AS Port-Louis 2000 (Mauritius)
NOTE: Due to security concerns in Libya, clubs from Libya cannot play their contests in their own country.
The two-game series are set to start the weekend of March 10-12 and conclude the following weekend, with the winners advancing to the group stage, expanded this year from eight to sixteen clubs.
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