Lobi Stars began their campaign in the group stage of this Year’s CAF Champions League with a 2-1 win against 2016 winners, Mamelodi Sundowns of South Africa.
Yaya Kone and Samuel Matthias both scored as ‘The Pride of Benue’ came from behind to beat the ‘The Brazilians’ at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium in Enugu.
Sundowns took the lead against the run of play when their Liberian striker Anthony Laffor tapped in a defense-splitting pass from Gaston Sirino on the 38th minute.
But Lobi drew level from the penalty just before the break on the 45th minute, Kone sending Sundowns goalkeeper Kennedy Mweene the wrong way after Sunday Adetunji was brought down in the box on his way to goal.
Earlier in the 9th minute, Lobi shot stopper Olufemi Kayode had denied the 2016 Champions an early lead with a fingertip save.
Seven minutes after the break, Matthias fired Lobi in front after a defensive mix-up in the opponent’s box.
Attempts by the South Africans to restore parity proved fruitless as Solomon Ogbeide’s men held on to secure all 3pts, and moved to top spot in Group A, pending the outcome of the game between Wydad Casablanca and ASEC Mimosas.
