Democratic Republic of Congo giants TP Mazembe put up a brave display to draw 0-0 with Viper SC in their CAF Champions League round 32 first leg clash.
The Ravens dusted themselves off recent uninspiring performances to hold Ugandan side at the St Mary’s Stadium, Kampala.
Mazembe would be indebted to their goalkeeper Ibrahim Mounkoro who pulled great saves to deny the hosts.
The five-time African champions were heavily boosted by the club owner Moise Katumbi who sat on the terraces for the match.
Vipers were taking the game to Mazembe in the opening exchanges but it took them up until the 24th minute to test goalkeeper Mounkoro, who parried away Milton Karisa’s strike from outside the box.
Robertinho’s charges carved open Ravens’ defence five minutes later after Lumala Abdul went through on goal on the right side of the box and played a square pass that was a little too strong for the unmarked Yunus.
Frank Dumas’ men had a chance on a counter-attack just before the half-time break after Ahmed Mondeko went through on goal but his cut-back was greatly intercepted by Mandela.
Mazembe searched towards the breakthrough ten minutes into the second half after Tunde’s cross found Mondeko , who went off target from close range.
On the hour mark some nice build up play by the away side saw Ngalamulume in a bit of space outside the box but he struck it very well but could only find the side netting.
Ten minutes later, Osomba had space to carry the ball up the pitch before finding Milton Karisa out wide and the winger cut inside and shot with his left foot, but his effort was tame and easily saved by Mounkoro.
A draw was looking increasingly likely, although Mazembe were continuing to pose a threat. Vipers were looking dangerous on the counter since the introduction Ibrahim Orit, who was showing great speed and energy.
TP Mazembe will host the return leg against Vipers SC at the Mazembe Stadium in Lumbubashi on 16 October.
