Nsoatreman FC faced a tough challenge at home as they lost 2-0 to Algerian side CS Constantine in the first leg of the CAF Confederation Cup's second preliminary round.
The match at the Accra Sports Stadium on Friday, September 13, 2024, saw the Ghanaian FA Cup champions struggle to keep pace with their North African opponents.
The game began with promise for Nsoatreman, as Kwabena Adu Meider nearly gave the home side an early lead.
In the 7th minute, Meider found himself in a promising position, but his close-range effort narrowly missed the target, leaving the home fans gasping in anticipation.
However, CS Constantine quickly turned the tide in their favour.
Five minutes later, striker Zakaria Benchaa broke the deadlock with a brilliant solo effort.
Benchaa picked up the ball near the centre circle, weaved through the Nsoatreman defence, and coolly slotted the ball past the goalkeeper, giving the visitors a 1-0 lead.
Benchaa was not done yet. In the 27th minute, he struck again, doubling Constantine's advantage with another composed finish.
Despite Nsoatreman's improved performance in the second half, they could not capitalize on several scoring opportunities, leaving them with a difficult task ahead.
Nsoatreman must overcome a two-goal deficit when they travel to Algeria for the second leg at the Chahid Hamlaoui Stadium next Sunday.
The winner of the tie will advance to the group stage of the competition, making the upcoming match crucial for Nsoatreman's continental aspirations.