CAF Champions League: ASEC bring Jwaneng Galaxy back down to earth, Wydad get their season going
In Matchday 3 of the CAF Champions League, Wydad picked up their first win of the season, beating Simba
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ASEC Mimosas bring Jwaneng Galaxy back down to earth
Newcomers to the CAF Champions League, Jwaneng Galaxy had earned their first win on Matchday 1 by stunning Wydad (Group B). Hosting ASEC Mimosas, the Botswanans were overwhelmed. The Ivorians were even able to afford a penalty miss by Essis Aka (36th). But the salvation came from 20-year-old young striker Sankara Karamoko, who scored a brace (57th and 79th). The talent has come off the bench 3 times in the CAF Champions League for 3 goals and 1 assist, all in 79 cumulative minutes of playing time. The win puts ASEC top of Group B with 7 points, ahead of Jwaneng Galaxy (4 points).
Wydad finally win
In the other Group B match, Wydad Casablanca finally came to life after their two defeats in the first 2 matchdays. A rumour in the Moroccan media had suggested coach Adil Ramzi was on his way out. But WAC's board decided to keep faith in the coach, and the response was immediate. Hosting Simba, the runners-up from the previous edition of the CAF Champions League snatched victory in the 95th minute through Zakaria Draoui.
TP Mazembe and Espérance de Tunis settle for draws
While waiting for the favourites, Mamelodi Sundowns, to play, TP Mazembe failed to build on last week's win against Mamelodi. The Ravens took only a point from Mauritania against Nouadhibou (0-0). The surprise Mauritanian side already have 4 points. That may only be temporary, with the Sundowns set to host Egyptian side Pyramids FC.
Espérance de Tunis met the same fate in Group C, held by Petro Luanda (0-0) in a tight match with intense duels. After 3 matchdays, the Angolans lead the group with 7 points, a 3-point cushion over the Tunisians.