Black Bulls snatch late draw against Al Masry in TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup

Black Bulls Maputo staged a dramatic late comeback to earn a 1-1 draw against Al Masry in their second Group D match of the TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup on Sunday night. 

The thrilling encounter at the Estádio do Zimpeto saw the Mozambican side rescue a point in added time, keeping their slim hopes alive in the competition.

The Egyptian visitors opened the scoring in the 10th minute when Mido Gaber latched onto a headed pass from Salah Mohsen, slotting a left-footed effort into the top left corner.

The early goal gave Al Masry a firm foothold in the game, as they dominated possession and created several opportunities to extend their lead.

Gaber’s injury shortly after, however, disrupted their rhythm, forcing a tactical reshuffle.

Despite a spirited response from the Black Bulls, the home side struggled to convert their chances in the first half, with Al Masry’s defensive resilience holding firm.

The second half saw Black Bulls grow into the game, pushing Al Masry deeper into their own half.

Substitutions by Black Bulls coach Amarante de Jesus proved pivotal, with Ejaita Ifoni and Fidel Sousa injecting energy into the attack.

The breakthrough came in dramatic fashion during stoppage time.

Nené, who had been a constant threat, rose highest to head home Fidel Sousa’s precise cross from a corner, sending the home crowd into raptures.

The late equalizer capped a spirited fightback for the Mozambican side.

The result leaves both teams level on one point apiece in a tightly contested Group D, with Al Masry momentarily topping the group on goal difference.

Earlier in the day, Zamalek and Enyimba played out a thrilling 2-2 draw, keeping the group wide open as the battle for qualification intensifies.

Both sides will need to up their game in the upcoming fixtures.

Black Bulls face an uphill task as they prepare for a tough home match against Enyimba on Sunday, while Al Masry will hope to capitalise on the match being played at home against compatriots Zamalek later in the day.