Kenyan international Eric Otieno featured full minutes as AIK started their Svenska Cup campaign on a high, seeing off Orgryte IS 2-0 to top the group after the first round of matches.His compatriot, former Tusker FC forward Henry Meja, who linked up the club earlier in January was not in the matchday squad despite featuring in a couple of pre-season matches previously.Nabil Bahoui was the hero for last season’s league runners-up, scoring in either half to seal all three points for the hosts.The journey has started!!! pic.twitter.com/eVAScPRvjF— Erick Ouma (@Erick__ouma) February 19, 2022 He struck with four minutes left to play in the first half, before doubling the advantage at the stroke of the hour mark and AIK went on to hold on to the lead to full time.The former Gor Mahia left-back was however booked in the second minute of stoppage minute as they tried to protect their lead by all means.AIK will meet with Eskilsminne IF next weekend, before wrapping up the Group matches with Orebro SK a week later.
In Morocco, Masoud Juma featured full minutes as Difaa El Jadidi played to a barren draw with Chabab Mohammédia at home, finishing the match with a man less following the sending off of Mohamed El Jaaouani in the third minute of stoppage time.The draw left Difaa third on the log, although they had the chance to go within just one point of second-placed Raja Club Athletic who have played a match less.