In the first-ever quarter-final of the inaugural African Football League (AFL), Tanzania's Simba staged a remarkable comeback to secure a 2-2 draw against Egyptian giants Al Ahly.

The highly-anticipated opening match of the pan-African tournament saw Al Ahly take the lead with a goal from Reda Slim in the first minute of stoppage time, surprising the hosts.

Simba, however, turned the game around in the second half, with Denis Kibu equalizing in the 53rd minute and Sadjo Kanoute giving them the lead in the 60th minute.

Their advantage was short-lived as Ahmed Kahraba immediately responded for Al Ahly, leveling the score at 2-2.

In a thrilling end-to-end finish, neither team managed to find a late winner.

With the AFL's unique rule of not counting away goals as double, the tie remains evenly poised as they head into the return match in Egypt next weekend.

The dramatic match showcased the excitement and unpredictability that the new African Football League aims to bring to fans.