Remo Stars kicked off their CAF Champions League campaign in emphatic fashion, cruising to a 4-0 win over Comoros champions US Zilimadjou in Abeokuta on Sunday. The NPFL title holders, featuring in their fourth straight continental appearance, displayed sharpness and clinical finishing that leaves them on the brink of the next stage.
The breakthrough came in the 13th minute when defender Leonard Ngege pounced on a loose ball from a corner, slotting home to ignite the home crowd. That followed an earlier warning shot from Joseph Abah, who forced a smart save from Youssouf Diawadi.
The hosts continued to pile on pressure and nearly doubled their advantage when Olamilekan Adedayo’s chipped pass freed Alex Oyowah, but his solo run ended with a strike just off target. Their persistence finally told in added time of the first half. A well-rehearsed free-kick routine saw Chigozie Chilekwu link with Ibrahim Abubakar before setting up Ebuka Anthony, who calmly finished into the corner for 2-0 at the interval.
After halftime, Remo Stars showed no signs of slowing down. Substitute Adama Goita made it three in the 69th minute, towering above defenders to nod in Abubakar’s cross. Ten minutes later, Samson Olasupo wrapped up the rout, converting from close range after Haruna Hadi’s assist — his second in as many games.
For Zilimadjou, who were making only their second outing in Africa’s top club competition after facing Rangers International last season, this was a tough night. Their brightest moment came early on when they forced a clearance in the box, but beyond that, they struggled to match the speed and intensity of Daniel Ogunmodede’s side.
The win gives Remo a huge advantage heading into Friday’s return fixture, which will also take place in Abeokuta due to stadium logistics. If they progress, a blockbuster clash with South African giants Mamelodi Sundowns awaits in the next round.
Elsewhere, Rivers United opened their continental campaign with a goalless draw away to FC Les Aigles du Congo in Kinshasa.
