Nejmeh record their first win of AFC Cup

20 March 2014

BEIRUT: Akram Moghrabis second-half strike lifted Nejmeh to their first win in Group B of the AFC Cup Wednesday as the 2005 finalists edged out Omani outfit Fanja 1-0.

The Beirut side, who started the day at the bottom of Group B, climbed to first place with the win, level on four points with Fanja but ahead of their regional rivals on the head-to-head rule.

Theo Bucker, yet to taste defeat in the domestic league since his appointment in December, finally got off the mark on a continental level after Nejmehs 2-1 opening round defeat to Al-Kuwait was followed by a goalless draw with Al-Jaish.

Wednesdays win capped off a fruitful week for the Lebanese clubs on AFC duty after Group A leaders Safa made it three wins on the spin Tuesday with a 1-0 defeat of Al-Suwaiq to edge closer to a place in the round of 16.

Nejmeh return to local action this week when they face Ijtimaai Tripoli Sunday, before resuming their AFC campaign with a trip to Oman to face Fanja April 1.

Meanwhile, the two-time defending champions Safa will be able to enjoy an extended period of rest following two grueling trips to Tajikistan and Oman.

The Beirut club will face Ansar in the local league on Mar. 29, followed by their return leg against Al-Suwaiq in the AFC Cup four days later.