October 16, (THEWILL) – Plateau United had a frustrating end to their CAF Champions League ambitions in Tunisia as Esperance advanced to the knockout round of the competition due to a questionable penalty awarded to them in the 83rd minute.
The Jos team was on the very brink of qualifying for the lucrative group stage, needing only a draw after their 2-1 lead from the first leg in Abuja last weekend.
But, the referee conjured up a penalty for an infringement that was very plainly committed outside the 18-yard box.
The Nigerian side was left stunned when the referee pointed to the spot. From the ensuing penalty, Esperance found the extra goal to finish the game 2-2 and advance instead thanks to the away-goal rule.
Though they miss out on the CAF Champions League, Plateau will stay on the continent and instead compete in the CAF Confederation Cup playoff game for a spot in the group stage of that competition.
