Ghana Premier League champions FC Samartex marked their CAF Champions League debut with a vital 1-0 victory against Victoria United in Cameroon, putting themselves in a strong position to advance in the competition. The Timber Giants, making their first appearance in Africa’s premier club tournament, showed resilience and composure to secure the win.
The match faced an unusual delay of 25 minutes after Samartex protested the eligibility of certain Victoria United players, keeping both teams in the tunnel before the game eventually kicked off.
Once underway, both sides struggled to assert dominance in a goalless first half. However, shortly after the break, Emmanuel Mamah broke the deadlock, scoring the decisive goal to give Samartex the lead.
Victoria United pushed to find an equaliser, but Samartex’s defence held firm, ensuring a crucial away victory. The result gives the Ghanaian side a strong platform ahead of the return leg in Accra next week, where they will aim to confirm progression to the next stage.
The Timber Giants now hope to emulate the success of fellow Ghanaian debutants Medeama SC, who reached the group stage in their maiden CAF Champions League campaign after edging Remo Stars and Horoya. Samartex’s historic victory signals their intent to compete at the highest level in African club football.
