Remo Stars Dominate US Zilimadjou in CAF Champions League Opener
Remo Stars, the reigning champions of the Nigeria Premier Football League, launched their CAF Champions League campaign with a resounding 4-0 victory over Comoros champions US Zilimadjou in the first leg of their preliminary round encounter. The match, held at the MKO Abiola Stadium in Abeokuta, showcased Remo Stars’ tactical prowess and attacking firepower, leaving their opponents reeling and all but securing their progression to the next round.
From the opening whistle, Remo Stars asserted their dominance, creating numerous scoring opportunities and keeping US Zilimadjou’s defense under constant pressure. Their breakthrough arrived in the 13th minute when defender Leonard Ngege capitalized on a loose ball following a corner kick, giving his team an early lead. This early goal set the tone for the rest of the match, with Remo Stars continuing to dictate the tempo and create chances. Joseph Abah’s early test of goalkeeper Youssouf Diawadi foreshadowed the onslaught to come.
Remo Stars nearly extended their lead shortly after when Olamilekan Adedayo’s expertly placed pass found Alex Oyowah, whose skillful dribbling past two defenders culminated in a shot that narrowly missed the target. The Sky Blue Stars’ relentless pressure finally paid dividends in first-half stoppage time. A well-rehearsed free-kick routine saw Chigozie Chilekwu combine with Ibrahim Abubakar, who then delivered a precise cut-back pass to Ebuka Anthony, allowing him to calmly slot the ball into the bottom corner and double Remo Stars’ advantage as the teams headed into halftime.
The second half witnessed Remo Stars maintaining their dominance, adding two more goals to further solidify their commanding lead. In the 69th minute, substitute Adama Goita showcased his aerial prowess by rising highest to meet Abubakar’s pinpoint cross and heading the ball past a helpless Diawadi for Remo Stars’ third goal. Ten minutes later, another substitute, Samson Olasupo, put the final nail in the coffin, converting from close range after being set up by Haruna Hadi, marking Hadi’s second consecutive game with an assist.
US Zilimadjou, despite carrying the experience of their debut continental campaign from the previous season against Rangers International, struggled to cope with the pace, intensity, and tactical organization displayed by Daniel Ogunmodede’s men. Their limited attacking threat faded as Remo Stars took control of the match. Their best chance came in the opening stages, forcing a defensive clearance, but it proved to be a fleeting moment of promise amidst Remo Stars’ overwhelming dominance.
With a commanding 4-0 lead after the first leg, Remo Stars find themselves in an enviable position heading into the second leg, which will also be played at the MKO Abiola Stadium due to stadium arrangements. A victory in the second leg would propel Remo Stars to a highly anticipated clash against South African giants Mamelodi Sundowns in the second round of the CAF Champions League. This dominant performance against US Zilimadjou signals Remo Stars’ intent and potential to make a significant impact in the tournament.
Meanwhile, fellow Nigerian representatives Rivers United began their CAF Champions League campaign with a goalless draw against FC Les Aigles du Congo in Kinshasa. The contrasting results of the two Nigerian teams highlight the unpredictable nature of continental football, where both triumphs and challenges await. While Remo Stars enjoy a comfortable cushion, Rivers United face a tougher road ahead, needing a victory in the second leg to advance. Both teams will be looking to represent Nigeria with pride and make a deep run in the prestigious competition.
