Gambia League champions Madina United FC held Sierra Leonean side Star Sport Academy FC to a goalless draw at the Southern Arena Stadium in the first leg of their CAF Champions League Preliminary Round qualifier.
Star Sport Academy started the match with high intensity, moving the ball effectively from side to side while putting pressure on the Gambian champions. However, their star striker, Larry, missed several opportunities to give his side the lead in the first half.
In the 35th minute, Momodu Lamin, who is on loan from BO Rangers FC, also had an opportunity to find the back of the net but failed to finish clinically.
Madina United adopted a compact low-block defensive approach, hoping to capitalize on mistakes from their opponents. Their goalkeeper, Isaac Caulker, made several crucial saves to keep the match goalless at the break.
Both teams returned from the interval with renewed attacking intent following tactical adjustments from their respective coaches.
Star Sport Academy started the second half strongly, creating several scoring opportunities but once again struggled to convert them.
Head coach Amidu Karim made a series of substitutions in an effort to inject fresh energy into his team. Despite the changes, Star Sport Academy could not find the breakthrough.
Madina United head coach Ebrima Gatta expressed satisfaction with the result, praising his team’s defensive discipline throughout the match. He said the Gambian champions remain focused on securing qualification to the next round.
For Star Sport Academy, Coach Amidu Karim expressed disappointment over his side’s missed chances, saying the failure to convert their opportunities was frustrating. He, however, stressed the need for better preparation ahead of the return leg.
The second leg is scheduled to take place on September 12, 2026, with Madina United hosting Star Sport Academy as both sides battle for a place in the next round of the CAF Champions League Preliminary Qualifiers.