I-League champions Dempo let in a late goal and were held 1-1 by Lebanese giants Al Ansar in their penultimate Group A league match of the AFC Cup in Beirut.

Nigerian import Ranti Martins Soleye put Dempo ahead in the 29th minute against the run of play and stunned the Ansar supporters at Beirut Sports City stadium on Thursday night before Ansar defender Mohamad Hammoud scored the equalizer six minutes from the end in a match largely dominated by the hosts.

With leaders Al Muharraq of Bahrain also drawing 2-2 with Sur Club of Oman, it means any of the three teams could still finish top of the pile with one round remaining.

Muharraq and Al Ansar both have eight points with Dempo are one behind on seven. Sur Club are lie at bottom of table.

Dempo have to beat Sur Club at home on May 14 in their last league match to have a chance of making it to the last eight stage, while Muharrq and Ansar play against each other the same day.

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