CAIRO: Al-Gaish beat their Algerian visitors ES Setif 2-1 in the Arab Champions League semi-final first leg on Tuesday.

Yassin Abdul-Aal struck twice in the 26th and 53rd minutes to give the hosts a 2-0 lead but the visitors pulled one back through Fares Mecheri 10 minutes before time.

Ernest Papa Arko s effort was blocked by the Algerian keeper only to fall at the feet of Abdul-Aal who sent it back in the nets.

He secured victory when he scored from close range meeting Hassan Mostafa s precise cross.

Mecheri scored a crucial goal in the 80th minute that boosts ES Setif s hopes before the return leg in May 3rd.

Meanwhile, Wydad Casablanca snatched a precious away win at Faisali 2-1 in the other tie.