Souayeh scored the winner

Esperance of Tunisia became the first team to reach the semi-finals of the Champions League after a hard-fought 1-0 victory over AS Aviacao of Angola on Saturday.

An early goal from Skander Souayeh not only secured the Group B win for the home side, but also preserved their unbeaten record in this year's competition.

The victory was the third in four games for the home side, who have amassed 10 points in Group B and are now assured of a berth in the last four.

Group B results and fixtures

Souayeh's 13th-minute shot fooled goalkeeper Papi Lukutu, who could only stand and watch as the ball flew past him for a lead Esperance would never relinquish.

The Tunisians the red-hot favourites for the title and have reached the semi-finals four times in last five years.

They have also been the most consistent team in the tournament since it began seven years ago.

But Esperance have not won Africa's premier club competition since the league format was introduced in 1997.