Ghana midfielder Kwasi Sibo made his CAF Champions League debut as Al Swehly secured a 1-0 home victory over Esperance de Tunis in the first leg of their second-round preliminary tie.
Sibo started in midfield for the Libyan club at Misurata Stadium on Sunday, with Ayoub Ayed scoring the decisive goal in the 64th minute.
The result gives Al Swehly a narrow advantage before the return fixture this weekend, when they will attempt to eliminate the experienced Tunisian side and move closer to the group stage of Africa’s leading club competition.
Sibo had missed Al Swehly’s opening-round matches but was included from the start for the first meeting with Esperance. The appearance marked his first involvement in the tournament since joining the Libyan club’s campaign.
Ayed’s second-half strike settled a closely fought contest. The goal came after both teams had competed for control, leaving Al Swehly with a slender lead that could prove important in the second leg.
Esperance were dealt another blow after the final whistle when forward Youcef Belaili was shown a straight red card.
Al Swehly will now focus on protecting their advantage in the return fixture. Victory or a draw would take them through to the next stage, while Esperance must overturn the one-goal deficit to keep their campaign alive.
The match also offers Sibo the chance to gain further experience at continental club level. His start in the first leg could help him establish himself in the side ahead of what will be a decisive encounter for Al Swehly.
The Ghanaian’s club form comes as the Black Stars prepare for their next assignments in qualifying for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.
Ghana are scheduled to play Somalia in the third and fourth rounds of qualifying as they pursue a place at the continental tournament. Sibo will hope his performances for Al Swehly earn him selection for those matches next month.
Regular appearances in the CAF Champions League could strengthen his claim, as he seeks to show that he can compete at a high level in African football.
For now, Al Swehly’s immediate objective is to complete the job against Esperance and secure qualification for the group stage. Progress would represent a significant achievement for the Libyan club and give Sibo the opportunity to face more of the continent’s leading teams.
The narrow victory in Misurata means Al Swehly enter the second leg with qualification within reach, although Esperance remain capable of overturning the deficit. Sibo’s Champions League journey has started with a win, but the return match will decide whether he and his team-mates advance.