The Ivorian side were fired ahead early in the first half when Zagbayou Hugues cannoned an unstoppable long-range shot.

But the hosts were back on level terms when Adel Mostafa hit an equalizer on 20 minutes, after being set-up by Vincent Die Foneye.

Koffi Kouame resorted ASEC's slender lead 16 minutes from time with a fierce drive, when the Egyptian side eased off a bit.

But three minutes later, Ahmed Raouf took advantage of a deadly defensive error to score ENPPI's second and secure a precious draw.

A draw by less than two goals or a victory in the return leg, which takes place on May 29th in Cairo, would be enough for the Petroleum side to qualify for the group stage.