By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
@GalloImages.
Durban City secured a 3-1 home victory over Mauritius’ AS Port Louis 2000 in the CAF Confederation Cup second preliminary round first-leg at the Moses Mabhida Stadium on Sunday.
Goals from Haashim Domingo, Gaston Sirino and Tashreeq Morris gave the South African side a two-goal advantage ahead of next weekend’s return fixture.
City made a strong start, taking the lead in the 15th minute when Domingo converted after Alou Doumbia had directed Siphamandla Ncanana’s cross back into the penalty area.
The hosts doubled their advantage immediately after half-time as Sirino scored from a tight angle in the 46th minute.
However, Port Louis responded in the 53rd minute through Louis Roussety, who capitalised on a mistake by goalkeeper Frederic Asare to reduce the deficit.
The visitors’ goal briefly threatened City’s advantage, but the South African club continued to create opportunities.
Jean Lubumba missed a chance to restore the two-goal cushion when he failed to convert from close range late in the match.
Substitute Morris eventually sealed the victory with a stoppage-time penalty after a foul inside the area.
The result leaves Durban City in a strong position to reach the group stage, while Port Louis must overturn the deficit in Mauritius to keep their continental campaign alive.
Meanwhile Mamelodi Sundowns played to a goalless draw against Wiliete SC at Estadio Nacional da Tundavala on Sunday afternoon.
Kick-off was delayed by 30 minutes due to bad weather and the risk of lightning, forcing both sides to wait before the match could begin.
The match was also overshadowed by an injury to midfielder Teboho Mokoena, who was stretchered off after a heavy challenge from a Wiliete player.
The result means the Brazilians will need to make home advantage count if they are to progress to the Champions League group stages.
Elsewhere Siwelele FC snatched a dramatic late 1-0 victory over Polokwane City in a tightly contested Betway Premiership encounter at the Toyota Stadium in Bloemfotein.