Berkane and Ahly Tripoli level as tie heads to Morocco

RS Berkane took a useful 1-1 draw from Tripoli in the first leg of their TotalEnergies CAF Champions League second preliminary round tie against Al Ahly Tripoli on Sunday night.

The Moroccan side struck first midway through the second half before the Libyans replied almost immediately, leaving the contest finely poised ahead of the return fixture in Morocco.

In a charged atmosphere, the opening period unfolded as a tactical duel. Both teams kept their shape, crowded midfield and limited risk, with neither goalkeeper seriously tested before the interval.

Berkane gradually grew into the game after the restart, pushing their full-backs higher and forcing the hosts onto the back foot.

The pressure told on 69 minutes when Paul Valère Bassène guided a precise finish beyond the Ahly Tripoli keeper to reward Berkane’s control of territory.

The advantage was short-lived; three minutes later Mabululu levelled with a sharp response for the Libyans, restoring parity and reigniting the home crowd.

The away goal leaves Berkane well placed for the second leg, where they will look to convert home support in Berkane into a group-stage berth.

Ahly Tripoli, who matched the visitors’ intensity for long spells, travel to Morocco believing an organised display could tip the balance in their favour.