El Merrickh (Sudan) 1-2 KCC FC (Uganda)
Uganda’s representatives in the 2014 Orange Caf Champions League started the campaign in a victorious fashion after beating 2-0 El Merrickh of Sudan in Khartoum.
KCC FC whose last meeting with El Merrickh in Khartoum in 2009 ended in a 1-1 draw got two early first half goals from strikers Herman Wasswa and Tony Odur.
Herman Wasswa broke the deadlock in the 13th minute with a cool finish after receiving a good ball from William Wadri before his strike partner Tony Odur doubled the lead a minute later with Wasswa bagging an assist.
Despite endless attacks in search of a reply, KCC FC held on to a 2-0 half time lead.
El Merrickh kick started the second period in high gear and launched attack after attack but were denied by the gallant performance of Jamal Salim in KCC FC goal.
Nevertheless, KCC FC missed an opportunity to triple the lead as Tom Masiko’s shot on the edge of the area hit the post.
Jamal Salim ensured his side left Khartoum with a clean sheet when he saved Pascal Wawa penalty with ten minutes left on the clock after defender Kawooya fouled Faisal Musa in the area.
With less than 20 minutes to play, George Nsimbe withdrew Herman Wasswa for Brian Majwega and later Tony Odur for Richard Malinga in the closing stages of the game.
KCC FC will host the return leg on Saturday February 15 at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole and a draw or at worst a 1-0 loss will see them through to the first round.
KCC FC Line Up:
Jamal Salim (GK), Ssaka Mpiima, Habib Kavuma, Ibrahim Kizza, Fahad Kawooya (c), Ivan Ntege, Gadaffi Kiwanuka, Tom Masiko, Tony Odur (Richard Malinga), Herman Wasswa (Brian Majwega) and William Wadri.
