On Saturday evening, Asec Mimosas, the Ivorian giants, left the field with smiles as they held Esperance Sportive de Tunis to a goalless draw in the final round of Quarter-Final fixtures at the Stade Olympique in Tunis.
This 0-0 stalemate sets the stage for an intense showdown in the return fixture in Abidjan next weekend, with both teams heading into the clash with clean sheets.
Despite facing a possession deficit, Asec Mimosas seized the initiative, with Karidioula Mofosse nearly capitalizing on a defensive error by Raed Bouchniba early on, only to see his attempt miss the target.
The Tunisians had their own opportunity just before the half-hour mark, as Ghaylen Chaleli's dangerous delivery forced the keeper into a scrambling save to avert the danger.
Oussema Bouguerra, brought on in the second half, came close to scoring the opener with a powerful strike from outside the box that beat Ayayi Folly but struck the woodwork instead.
In the 74th minute, midfield sensation Houssem Tka had a chance to break the deadlock but narrowly missed the target with his header, despite outmaneuvering his markers.
Despite enduring significant pressure throughout the match, the Ivorians displayed resilience, successfully thwarting most attacks. They left the North African nation with a confidence-boosting draw ahead of the return leg next weekend.
The CAF Champions League return leg Quarter-Finals are scheduled for April 5th and 6th.
CAF Champions League Quarter-Finals Results (First Leg):
Friday, 29 March
Simba AC 0 – 1 Al Ahly SC
Saturday, 30 March
TP Mazembe 0 – 0 Atletico Petroleos
Young Africans 0 – 0 Mamelodi Sundowns
Esperance de Tunis 0 - 0 Asec Mimosas
