Red Arrows have advanced to the second round of the CAF Confederation Cup after completing a 4-0 aggregate victory over Madagascar’s FC Rouge with a 2-0 win in the second leg in Mauritius on Sunday.
The Airmen produced another disciplined and commanding performance at the Côte d’Or National Sports Complex to complete a double over FC Rouge, having won the first leg 2-0 in Ndola.
Ackim Mumba was the star of the day, scoring in either half to underline Red Arrows’ superiority across the two legs.
Despite carrying a two-goal advantage into the return fixture, Red Arrows started on the front foot and controlled possession as they looked to extend their lead.
FC Rouge goalkeeper Tsilavintisoa Randrianaivo was forced into action early, denying Munda Phiri from distance before making another save from a free-kick after Phiri was brought down on the edge of the box.
The pressure eventually paid off in the 23rd minute.
Munda delivered a dangerous ball into the box, and Mumba was perfectly positioned to apply the finishing touch from close range and give the Zambian side the lead.
Red Arrows continued to dictate proceedings, with Alassane Diarra testing Randrianaivo with a fierce low drive, while Munda came close again before the break when his effort was blocked and diverted for a corner.
Airmen dominate second half
FC Rouge returned from the interval needing to find a way back into the contest, but Red Arrows remained the more threatening side.
Diarra missed a good opportunity shortly after the restart after finding himself with the goalkeeper beaten, while Eliya Mandanji saw his effort flash narrowly past the side netting.
Mumba then doubled the lead in spectacular fashion in the 55th minute.
The forward found space outside the box before unleashing a superb strike into the right-hand corner of the net, effectively putting the tie beyond FC Rouge.
With Red Arrows now leading 4-0 on aggregate, the Airmen managed the remainder of the match intelligently, slowing the tempo and maintaining their defensive shape.
The victory sends Red Arrows into the second round of the CAF Confederation Cup, where they will face South African giants Kaizer Chiefs.
The Airmen will now turn their attention to what promises to be a much tougher challenge against the Soweto giants as they continue their quest to reach the group stage of the competition.
