CAF CC: Plateau Utd walk tight rope, beat USM Alger 2-1

Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) reigning champions, Plateau United narrowly defeated USM Alger of Algeria 2-1 in the first leg of their CAF Confederation Cup playoff at the Agege Stadium in Lagos on Saturday.

Former junior international King Osanga sent the fans into a wild celebration with the first goal after 19 minutes after he was set up by Chizoba Amaefule.

The Coach Kennedy Boboye tutored side will have themselves to blame for failing to make the best use of the numerous chances that came their way.

Tosin Omoyele should have added to the tally, but the former Osun United forward saw his 41st minute goal-bound header saved by goalkeeper Zemamouche.

The Algerians however stepped up their play in the second half and they were able to restore parity 55 minutes courtesy Yaya Fatou, who slotted the ball past goalkeeper Dele Ajiboye from outside the box.

Substitute Emmanuel James then ensured that the Nigerian side claim the victory after scoring the winner with 14 minutes left on the clock.

The second leg tie is to be played between April 17,18 and 19 and the overall winners of this match-up will advance to the group stage of the annual competition.