Sekhukhune United remain in the running for a spot in the CAF Confederation Cup knockout stages after a goalless draw against Stade Malien on Sunday evening.
CAF Confederation Cup
Result: Sekhukhune United 0-0 SM Bamako
Date: 10 December 2023
Venue: New Peter Mokaba Stadium
Sekhukhune were boosted by the return of Kamohelo Mokotjo, Siphosakhe Ntiya-Ntiya, Chibuike Ohizu, Maloisane Mokhele and Tresor Yamba in the five changes following their win over Chippa United.
Babina Noko were on the front foot from the word go and Elias Mokwana came close to giving them the lead on 17 minutes with a strike in the box repelled by goalkeeper N'Golo Traore.
The hosts continued to dictate matters but they were forced to make a change shortly before the half-hour mark after Nyiko Mobbie could not continue due to injury and he was replaced by Katlego Mkhabela.
Stade Malien caught a breather and grew in the game after that as Lassine Kouma forced a save out of goalkeeper Renaldo Leaner with a strike in the box.
However, Lehlohonolo Seema's charges finished the first stanza strongly, as on the stroke of half-time Vusimuzi Mncube came close with a header that missed wide after a cross by Mkhabela and the sides went to the break without goals.
The game opened up early in the second stanza, with the Malian side finding chances going forward and still in search of the opener, Babina Noko made a double attacking just after the hour-mark, as Thamsanqa Masiya and Rally Bwalya both came on for Mokhele and Webber.
Sekhukhune threatened immediately after that as Yamba had a header kept out by Traore after a cross by Mkhabela.
However, the game was there for the taking in the latter stages, with Stade Malien having equal opportunities but neither side could take their chances and had to settle for a point apiece in Group D.
Both sides are equal on four points, five points adrift of leaders RSB Berkane and four points clear of bottom side Diables Noirs.
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