Medeama stunned by late TP Mazembe goal in Champions League opener

Ghana Premier League champions Medeama SC suffered a setback in their CAF Champions League campaign after falling to a narrow 1-0 defeat against TP Mazembe in the first leg of their preliminary-round tie at the TNA Stadium in Tarkwa.

The hosts made a bright start and controlled much of the opening exchanges, keeping the experienced DR Congo side under pressure during the first 15 minutes.

Medeama also created several promising opportunities but were unable to find a breakthrough as the first half ended goalless.

Both teams emerged from the break determined to seize the initiative, with chances coming at either end in an increasingly competitive contest.

TP Mazembe gradually grew into the game and came closest to opening the scoring before finally making their pressure count late on.

The visitors struck in the 86th minute to silence the home crowd and secure a valuable first-leg advantage.

The result leaves Medeama with a difficult task ahead of the return fixture, where they will need to overturn the deficit to keep their hopes of progressing in Africa’s premier club competition alive.