Nouadhibou need to overturn a narrow deficit against San-Pédro

The most recent meeting between these sides ended 2-1 to San-Pédro, and that result shapes this Sunday’s rematch in the CAF Champions League second preliminary round.

Progress on the line

In a knockout tie, there is no consolation for the team that falls short. Whoever goes through reaches the next round, and that puts real pressure on Nouadhibou, who have to turn their one-goal deficit into a result. A narrow home win would keep the tie alive, but Nouadhibou will need more than a routine performance to reach the next stage.

For San-Pédro, the earlier win gives them something to protect. They can afford to be patient and make sure they do not lose the advantage they took into this game.

Form

Nouadhibou arrive with two draws and a defeat in their last three matches. They have scored twice in that run and conceded three times. Their only home game this season ended goalless, although they kept a clean sheet there.

San-Pédro have been more productive. They have scored five goals in three games and have won their most recent match, after two draws. Two of those goals came in the opening quarter-hour, so they have shown they can start strongly.

Our prediction

PreviaXI’s model favours Nouadhibou, and this looks like a tight, closely contested game. Playing at home gives Nouadhibou the edge, and they are the side more likely to create the better chances. San-Pédro’s early-goal habit means they can hurt anyone, so the hosts will need discipline throughout.

A single goal from Nouadhibou would keep the tie alive without settling it, but it would be enough to make the return leg dramatic.

Nouadhibou 1-0 San-Pédro