Ghana’s continental club masters braved a home loss to march on in this year’s CAF Confederations Cup.

Hearts lost 1-0 at the Accra Sports Stadium to Djoliba, but the first leg 2-1 away win left the game 2-2 on aggregate, the Ghanaians progressing on the away goals rule.

It was a depleted Hearts side that turned up for the clash with the Malians. Skipper Gnagne missed out through suspension, whilst Owusu Bempah and goalkeeper Seidu where on international duty.

Knowing they were leading and not at full strength, it was a very cautious Hearts team that met the Malians. Hearts employed a very Herbert Addo set up, holding their opponents and not giving much room for chances.

It worked for most of the game, but the determined Malians finally broke through the chink, defender Ndiaye striking in the 84th minute.

Hearts held on to go through, not minding the defeat as they gained overall progress. Amazingly, this was Hearts’ first loss in this year’s competition.

The Phobians would next face a losing Champions league side in the final qualifying round, in what’s bound to be their toughest test yet.