SHOOTING STARS ROAR TO VITAL 1–0 WIN OVER CS SFAXIEN, TAKE SLIM ADVANTAGE INTO SECOND LEG

The Nigerian representatives produced a disciplined and determined performance in front of their home supporters, showing character, composure and tactical maturity against an experienced North African opponent.

The decisive moment came in the 25th minute, when Lucky Emmanuel found the back of the net to hand the Oluyole Warriors a deserved lead.

The goal provided Shooting Stars with the confidence to maintain their attacking approach while keeping a close eye on the threat posed by the visitors.

CS Sfaxien attempted to respond before the break, but Shooting Stars remained organised and protected their advantage to head into halftime with a valuable 1–0 lead.

The second half witnessed a different approach from the Tunisian side, who returned from the interval with increased intensity and began piling pressure on the Nigerian club in search of an equaliser.

However, Shooting Stars' goalkeeper stood firm when called upon, producing important saves and maintaining a clean sheet.

The defensive unit also deserves enormous credit for a resolute display. The backline remained compact, disciplined and committed, frustrating CS Sfaxien's attacking moves and denying the visitors the clear opportunity they needed to level the contest.

The Oluyole Warriors were not content with simply protecting their lead. As the match approached its final stages, Shooting Stars created opportunities that could have doubled their advantage.

Unfortunately, those chances were not converted.

Despite that, the team held its nerve until the final whistle, securing a precious 1–0 home victory and keeping a clean sheet against a highly experienced Tunisian opponent.

The result represents an important boost for Shooting Stars ahead of the second leg next weekend.

While the one-goal advantage does not settle the tie, it gives the Ibadan-based side something valuable to take into the return fixture: a lead, confidence and momentum.

The challenge now is to remain focused, disciplined and determined throughout the second leg. CS Sfaxien will be expected to come out strongly on home soil, but Shooting Stars have demonstrated that they possess the organisation and resilience required to compete at the continental level.

The Oluyole Warriors will now turn their attention to the second leg, with qualification firmly within their sights.