Star Sport Academy Football Club marked their CAF Champions League debut with a barren draw against Medina FC of Gambia in the first leg of this year’s preliminary qualifying round at Southern Arena in Bo on Saturday.

The Sierra Leonean side, coached by experienced tactician Amidu Karim, created several chances but were unable to break through a disciplined Medina FC defence, leaving the two-legged tie finely balanced ahead of next week’s return leg in The Gambia.

However, Medina FC suffered a late setback when head coach Ebrima Gatta was sent off for unsporting behaviour in the second half.

Although disappointed by the result, Karim praised his players for their disciplined performance and fighting spirit, insisting that his side remains confident of progressing to the second qualifying round.

Star Sports Academy will now need a stronger attacking display in the return leg to keep their historic continental campaign alive.