Ghana Premier League champions, FC Samartex 1996, claimed a crucial first-leg advantage with a narrow 1-0 win over Victoria United in the CAF Champions League preliminary round at the Japoma Stadium in Douala, Cameroon.

The match's decisive moment came in the second half when Emmanuel Mamah scored the only goal, securing a vital away victory for FC Samartex ahead of the return leg at the Accra Sports Stadium on Sunday.

Head Coach Nurudeen Amadu showed confidence in his squad, keeping Kofi Baah between the posts, with Ebenezer Acquah captaining the team. Baba Hamadu and Emmanuel Mamah spearheaded the attack.

Despite dominating possession in the early stages, the home side struggled to pose any real threat to the FC Samartex defence. As the first half progressed, the visitors grew in confidence, though the scoreline remained unchanged.

However, the Ghanaian champions emerged stronger after the break, pressing forward in search of a breakthrough.

Their persistence paid off in the 47th minute when Mamah headed home from a corner, breaking the deadlock. The Timber Giants then held firm to their slender lead, setting the stage for a crucial second leg in Accra on Sunday.