Al-Merrikh's German coach Otto Pfister played with a defensive mentality and tried to hit on the break, the strategy that proved successful and helped the club claim a precious draw.

Al-Merrikh could have even grabbed a victory two minutes from time when Nigerian striker Endurance Idahor went on one-on-one situation but he failed to deliver.

A win with any result for Al-Merrikh in the second-leg in Omdurman would be enough to lift them to the group stage for the first time in history.

Al-Merrikh's compatriots Hilal have recently progressed to the CAF Champions League group stage for their first ever time.