CAF Champions League: Key Battles in Penultimate Group Stage Round
As clubs prepare for the penultimate round of matches, the CAF Champions League group stage is becoming hotter. So far, only Sudan's Al Hilal has guaranteed a place in the quarterfinals. The remaining teams are engaged in fierce competition to qualify.
Group A
In an attempt to maintain their position and take advantage of home advantage, MC Alger will face TP Mazembe on Friday. With a victory over Young Africans on Sunday, Algerians will be one step closer to joining Al Hilal for the second qualifying slot. Yanga, fresh from a 3-1 win over Mazembe, need another victory to keep their hopes alive.
Group B
A Moroccan derby on Saturday sees ASFAR host Raja Casablanca. Leaders ASFAR, with eight points, need a draw to advance, while Raja must win to remain in the hunt. Earlier that day, Mamelodi Sundowns face AS Maniema Union, where a win could secure their progression, pending results elsewhere.
Group C
Orlando Pirates and Al Ahly hold their fate. Pirates host CR Belouizdad on Sunday, and Ahly visit Stade d’Abidjan on Saturday. Wins for both would guarantee quarterfinal spots. Ahly must navigate several squad absences, including key players.
Group D
Pyramids head to Angola for a crucial tie against Sagrada Esperanca on Saturday, aiming to confirm their first-ever knockout stage appearance. Esperance de Tunis, tied with Pyramids on points, need a win against Djoliba on Sunday to secure their progression.
Fixtures (GMT):
- Friday: MC Alger vs. TP Mazembe (19:00)
- Saturday: Maniema Union vs. Sundowns (13:00)
Sagrada Esperanca vs. Pyramids (16:00)
Stade d’Abidjan vs. Ahly (16:00)
AS FAR vs. Raja (19:00) - Sunday: Pirates vs. CR Belouizdad (13:00)
Djoliba vs. Esperance (16:00)
Al Hilal vs. Yanga (19:00)
Khaled Hegazy
Dailysports's expert
