Confederation Cup: Asec finish in style

Although already through to the Confederation Cup quarter-finals, Asec Mimosas were determined to finish the group stage in style with a win over Rivers United. Julien Chevalier and his players accomplished that mission. An early Mofossé Karidioula goal in the 2nd minute earned the Yellow and Blacks victory in a difficult match.

The win takes them top of Group B. Ivory Coast’s champions also gain revenge over the Nigerian side, who won the first meeting by 3 goals to 0. The Mimos may not have played with flair, but they defended solidly to frustrate Paul Acquah and his team-mates. Without several key players, including Essis Baudelaire and Kouassi Attohoula, they stayed focused in front of goalkeeper Folly Ayayi Charles.

"Asec worked well defensively. They managed to disrupt our attackers, who did not meet expectations", admitted Rivers United coach Stanley Eguma. Julien Chevalier, meanwhile, said he was proud of "his players’ admirable attitude" as they rose from last place to first. The Mimos will learn their next Confederation Cup quarter-final opponents at the draw on Wednesday 5 April.

Kader G