Hearts snatch Caf Confed Cup ticket

Accra Hearts of Oak have progressed to the round of eight of the Caf Confederation Cup after recording a scintillating 3-2 away victory over Senegalese outfit Olympique de Ngor in the second-leg tie of the 1/16th final in M’Bour on Saturday.

The Phobians recorded a 5-3 aggregate after winning the first-leg 2-1 in Accra three weeks ago.

Ngor took an early lead in the 8th minute, maintaining the advantage all through the first half, but Hearts returned from the break more determined, levelling the score-line through substitute Eric Kumi before Ivorian defender Robin Gnagne converted a spot-kick in the 67th minute to hand Herbert Mensah’s side the lead.

Ngor, buoyed by a vibrant home support at the Stade Caroline Faye, equalised in the 73rd minute but Paul Acquah snatched a late winner to seal victory for the Accra giants.

Hearts in-form striker Gilbert Fiamenyo lasted only 38 minutes after picking up an injury and was replaced by Eric Kumi.

Youngster Isaac Mensah, who recently signed a new deal, was also handed a starting berth along with Togolese Foovi Aguidi.

Hearts, who won the maiden edition of the competition in 2004, will now face Djoliba of Mali who knocked out Egyptian side Petrojet.