Wydad Athletic Club of Morocco put up a composed display to beat Enyimba 1-0 in the first leg of the African Football League played at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo.
The Moroccans started off better than their hosts.
Enyimba did eventually find their rhythm and almost found the back of the net after Mbaoma Chijioke’s wonder-strike came off the crossbar in the early opening minutes of the first half.
Wydad were awarded a penalty in the 37th minute after Ayoub El Amloud was fouled inside the box.
Captain Yahya Jabrane scored the spot kick to ensure the North Africans go home with the confidence boosting advantage.
Ekene Awazie should have found the leveller immediately after the break but saw his shot saved by the keeper to the disappointment of the home fans.
Enyimba fought hard to get the equaliser in the second half but poor finishing and a resolute defense by Wydad thwarted their effort.
The two sides will meet in the reverse fixture in a week’s time at the Stade Mohamed V in Casablanca.