TP Mazembe and Egyptian side Al Ahly SC  played out a 0-0 draw in the first leg of their CAF Champions League semifinal tie on Saturday, April 20.

It was a disappointing afternoon for the former champions, who worked hard for the win but were held back by the reigning champions, who will be pleased with their performance in Lubumbashi. 

The hosts had the first opportunity after Filly Traore rose above his opponents to head at goal but saw his effort fly barely wide, leaving Mostafa Shoubir beaten.

At the half-hour mark, Mazembe skipper Glody Likonza was unlucky not to score after beating his marker with a diving header, but his effort flew just over the bar as Ahly escaped a scare.

The hosts continued to pressure Ahly but poor finishing in the final third proved to be their undoing, as the reigning champions proved grit to go into the half without conceding.

The match's golden opportunity fell to Zemanga Soze, who, after skipping past his marker, blasted his left-footed shot wide of the target from close range.

With few minutes remaining, Mazembe appeared to have clinched a crucial victory when a well-taken corner in the 88th minute found the head of Phillippes Kinzumbi but his attempt flew agonisingly over the bar.

While Mazembe will be disappointed that they did not score at home, there is still much to play for in Cairo next Friday, as the tie is still very much open for either side.