Soccer-Nigerian Ifeanyi ensures late win for Sudan's Al Hilal

Fri Jul 18, 2008 10:06pm BST
 
Email | Print | | Single Page
[-] Text [+]

By Mark Gleeson

KHARTOUM, July 18 (Reuters) - Nigerian striker Onigbo Ifeanyi scored a last-minute winner against his compatriots on Friday to lead Sudan's Al Hilal to a 3-2 win over Enyimba in the opening match of the group phase of the African Champions League.

Substitute Ifeanyi headed home after Enyimba goalkeeper Sani Ualiru missed a clearing punch to secure the first points in Group B for last year's semi-finalists.

Enyimba, twice winners of the continent's top club competition, came close to snatching a vital away point despite playing the last 30 minutes with 10 men.

Enyimba looked to have secured a draw when Stephen Worgu scored from close range in the 86th minute.

Enyimba had opened the scoring after a strong first-half showing when Worgu's mazy run set up Cletus Itodo for a goal in the 35th minute.

Al Hilal were given a lucky penalty just before the break after Ahmed Adel Ahmed tumbled down under a challenge from giant defender Okey Odita.

Odita was booked for the alleged foul and later sent off for a second caution in the 62nd minute.

By that time Al Hilal had come from a goal down to lead 2-1.  Continued...

 

Editor's Choice

  • Pictures
  • Video
  • Articles
Photo

A selection of our best photos from the past 24 hours.  View Slideshow 

Most Popular on Reuters UK

  • Articles
  • Videos
  • Recommended