Tusker FC’s hopes of reaching the CAF Confederation Cup group stage ended in disappointment despite a spirited fightback that earned them a 1-1 draw against Tanzania’s Singida Black Stars in Sunday’s return leg at Azam Complex.

The Brewers bowed out 2-1 on aggregate after losing the first leg 1-0 at Nyayo National Stadium, with their late equaliser proving insufficient to keep their continental campaign alive.

Needing a victory to overturn the deficit, coach Julien Mette’s charges approached the contest with attacking intent, creating several opportunities in an entertaining first half but failing to find the breakthrough.

Steven Etyang came close in the sixth minute after connecting with Ian Simiyu’s long pass, but his effort drifted narrowly wide. The winger threatened again moments later following a combination with Victor Mbaoma, only for his volley to miss the target.

Tusker continued to push after the break, with John Otieno heading wide from Simiyu’s delivery as the visitors searched for the opening goal.

However, Singida gradually grew into the contest and broke the deadlock in the 68th minute through Jonathan Sowah, who finished from close range after Jeancy Mboma delivered a dangerous cross into the box.

The goal left Tusker needing two goals to keep their qualification hopes alive, but the Kenyan side refused to surrender.

Their persistence paid off eight minutes from time when Mbaoma struck to restore parity. Substitute Abud Omar’s free-kick was parried by the Singida goalkeeper, allowing Hassan Warsama to collect the rebound and set up the Nigerian forward for the finish.

With time running out, Tusker pressed for the second goal that would have forced a penalty shootout. However, Singida held firm under pressure to protect their aggregate advantage and secure passage to the next round.

The elimination ended Tusker’s continental ambitions for the season, having qualified for the competition after winning the Mozzart Bet Cup.

Singida advanced to the group stage after capitalizing on their first-leg advantage, leaving the Brewers to turn their attention back to domestic competition. Their qualification also completed Tanzania’s representation in the CAF inter-club competitions’ group stages.