Ghanaian champions Samartex and Nsoatreman exit African inter-club competitions

Ghana’s participation in this year’s African inter-club competitions has ended in disappointment, with both Samartex and Nsoatreman FC being knocked out of their respective tournaments on Saturday.

Samartex’s CAF Champions League Exit

Ghanaian champions Samartex were eliminated from the CAF Champions League after a 2-0 defeat to Moroccan giants **Raja Casablanca** in the second leg of their second-round clash. The loss confirmed a 4-2 aggregate victory for Raja, who advanced to the group stage, leaving Samartex to focus on their domestic campaign.

Samartex had drawn 2-2 in the first leg in Accra, giving them hope of pulling off an upset in Morocco. However, Marouane Zila opened the scoring just before halftime for Raja, and despite the Timber Boys’ spirited efforts under coach Nurudeen Amadu, they couldn’t find a breakthrough. A late goal from Naoufel Zerhouni in the 88th minute sealed Samartex’s fate, ending their debut campaign in Africa’s premier club competition.

The club took to social media to express optimism despite the defeat, noting that “this experience, though disappointing, offers numerous lessons that we can use to improve and strengthen our performance in the future.”

Nsoatreman’s CAF Confederation Cup Exit

Meanwhile, Nsoatreman FC, Ghana’s FA Cup holders, were also knocked out of the CAF Confederation Cup after a 1-0 defeat to CS Constantine in Algeria. The result confirmed a 3-0 aggregate loss, as Constantine had secured a 2-0 win in the first leg in Accra.

Nsoatreman, who struggled to convert chances in the first leg, fell behind in the second leg when Zakaria Benchaa scored after 19 minutes. Constantine dominated the match, leaving Nsoatreman few opportunities to turn the tie around. Despite their best efforts, the Ghanaians were unable to breach the Algerian side’s defense, marking the end of their debut African campaign.

Both clubs will now shift focus to their domestic competitions. Samartex will resume their Ghana Premier League campaign with matches against Bibiani Gold Stars and **Medeama SC, while Nsoatreman will aim to defend their FA Cup title or challenge for the Premier League to secure another shot at continental football next season.

Source: Graphic online