Kashala’s late strike earns Lupopo deserved point against Al-Hilal

St Éloi Lupopo hit back late to draw 1–1 with Al-Hilal Omdurman in Lubumbashi on Sunday, a result that keeps Group C finely poised after two matchdays of the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League.

The Sudanese champions struck first on 12 minutes when Abdelraziq Omer pounced to steer in from close range, rewarding Al-Hilal’s sharp start. 

Lupopo laboured to respond and their frustration showed when captain Issama Mpeko went into the book before the interval.

St Éloi Lupopo’s changes at half-time injected urgency and territory for the Congolese hosts.

With Al-Hilal increasingly forced back—Petrus Aprocious cautioned as the pressure grew—Lupopo finally levelled on 79 minutes as Ramos Kashala slid home after the ball broke kindly in the area.

Hilal still threatened on the break late on, but two players of the visting side saw yellow as the Sudanese dug in to preserve a point. 

Lupopo substitute Mika Miche was booked in stoppage time as tempers flared, yet neither side could find a winner.

The draw follows Friday’s goalless meeting between MC Alger and Mamelodi Sundowns in Algiers.

Sundowns lead Group C on goal difference with four points, level with Al-Hilal. MC Alger sit third on two points, while Lupopo have one after two matches.

Both teams resume continental duty in January, with Lupopo aiming to turn improved second-half momentum into their first group win and Al-Hilal looking to maintain an unbeaten start.