Kano Pillars today had to come from behind to beat Ghana’s Asante Kotoko in a CAF Champions League qualifying match, while Niger Tornadoes were not so lucky in the CAF Confederation Cup after they fell at home to Santoba Conakry of Guinea 2-1.
Home team Pillars took the lead after just 10 minutes through striker Rahaqqu Adam Yusuf, before visitors Kotoko drew level 10 minutes after the break through a diving header by Justice Blay.
The Ghanaians then went in front in the 67th minute courtesy of a well-taken free kick by winger Godfred Asiamah.
Skipper Rabiu Ali restored parity for the home team with a spectacular overhead kick on 70 minutes.
Substitute Gambo Mohammed proved to be the match winner for Pillars when he hit target in the 75th minute.
The return leg will be played in Ghana on August 22.
In Kaduna, Tornadoes fell to a more organised and youthful Guinean team, who led 2-0 after 55 minutes of action.
However, substitute Godwin Zaki reduced the deficit from the penalty spot later in the second half.
