Pillars lose to Vita in Kinshasa

Source: Bakare Idowu

Nigerian champions, Kano Pillars, began their campaign in the 2014 Caf Champions League on a losing note.

Kano Pillars lost 1-3 to DR Congo's AS Vita Club at the Stade Tata Raphael on Sunday.

Interestingly the first half was an affair for players who took part at the 2014 African Nations Championship (Chan) to score goals.

The Congolese club got themselves in front when Firmin Mubele Ndombe scored in the 11th minute.

It took Kano Pillars 20 minutes to get back on level terms with their hosts through Nigeria midfielder, Rabiu Ali (pictured).

Just after Ali's goal, Bello Kofarmata missed a glorious opponent to give Pillars the lead after rounding the AS Vita goalkeeper but failed to hit target.

But the Kano club's joy lasted only 14 minutes when Guy Lusadisu Basisila restored AS Vita's lead and ensured they went into the break the more comfortable.

The second half began on a sour note for Kano Pillars as Kofarmata saw red for a second bookable offence in the 54th minute.

Two minutes after the Nigerians went one man down, AS Vita scored through Lema Mabidi to give themselves a two-goal lead with over 30 minutes to play.

Kano Pillars however held on to avoid conceding a fourth goal for the remaining 30 minutes and added time.

The return leg between Kano Pillars and AS Vita will take place at the Sani Abacha Stadium in Kano next weekend.