Shock in Abidjan! ASEC Mimosas miss out on CAF Champions League group stage

The Ivorian Ligue 1 champions were knocked out in the second preliminary round of the 2026–2027 CAF Champions League.

Having secured a valuable 1–1 draw in the first leg against MAS Fez in Meknes, the Ivorians eventually succumbed at home on Sunday 25 October at the Félix-Houphouët-Boigny Stadium. After a goalless first half, the match came to life after the break.

Ibahi opened the scoring in the 62nd minute for the Moroccans, putting ASEC Mimosas under pressure. The Yellow and Blacks, however, fought back through Bakare, who equalised in the 73rd minute and reignited the Ivorians’ hopes.

Just as the two teams seemed to be heading for a 1–1 draw, Baba popped up in the 90th+7 minute to secure victory for MAS Fez. It was a cruel blow for the Mimos, who saw their hopes dashed in the dying seconds of the match.

This defeat brings ASEC Mimosas’ continental campaign to an end, meaning they will not compete in the group stage of the CAF Champions League this season. For their part, MAS Fez continue their journey in Africa’s most prestigious club competition.