Monomotapa United continued to upset the odds in the 2009 CAF Champions League yesterday. The Zimbabweans' latest victims were 2007 champions Etoile Sahel, who fell to a 2-1 loss in Harare in their Group B opener. It was the second campaign running the Tunisian giants lost at the Rufaro Stadium, where Dynamos eliminated them from last year's competition before the group stage began.

Monomotapa, playing in pan-African competition for the first time this year, raced into the lead when, in the first minute, Daniel Kamunenga was on target. And although Etoile fought back with a goal from Ahmed Akaichi just after half-time, a glorious strike from Darryl Nyandoro extended United's giant-killing run, which included victories over ASEC Abidjan and Ajax Cape Town in the preliminary rounds.

I'm very happy for my players. They fought very hard today and they deserved to win.
Monomotapa coach Rodwell Dhlakama after his team's 2-1 win over Etoile Sahel

"First and foremost, I'm very happy for my players," said Monomotapa coach Rodwell Dhlakama afterwards. "They fought very hard today and they deserved to win. Both teams had a chance to win but I'm glad it was us that did."

Meantime, TP Mazembe moved level on points with Monomotapa in the section, thanks to a 2-0 defeat of Heartland. Second-half goals from experienced pair Tresor Mputu and Alain Kaluyitukadioko earned victory in Lubumbashi.

It was a disappointing afternoon for the Nigerians, but their compatriots Kano Pillars will be satisfied with a 1-1 draw away to Zesco United. Defender Rodger Kamwandi had put the Zambians in front, before Hilary Chukwu equalised 13 minutes from time.

Saturday's Sudanese derby between Al Merreikh and Al Hilal failed to produce any goals - a more pleasing result for the latter given they were the away side. They will resume their rivalry when the Champions League resumes in two weeks' time.