CAF Champions League: Surprising Exits and Exciting Matchups Await in the Next Stage

Following the conclusion of the 2024–2025 CAF Champions League group stage, several notable teams were eliminated early, including Algeria's CR Belouizdad, Morocco's Raja Casablanca, and Congo's TP Mazembe.

The teams for the quarterfinals are now set. From Group A, Sudan’s Al Hilal and Algeria’s Mouloudia have qualified. From Group B, Morocco’s FAR Rabat and South Africa’s Mamelodi Sundowns have moved forward.

In Group C, South Africa’s Orlando Pirates and Egypt’s Al Ahly have made it through. From Group D, Tunisia’s Esperance and Egypt’s Pyramids have also qualified.

The date for the quarterfinal draw hasn’t been announced yet. The matches will be played in two legs, with the first leg on March 28-29 and the second leg on April 4-5.

It’s worth noting that most of the teams that made it to the CAF Champions League quarterfinals for the 2024-2025 season are Arab clubs. In fact, four out of the eight teams—Al Ahly (Egypt), Pyramids (Egypt), Esperance (Tunisia), and Raja Casablanca (Morocco)—come from Arab countries. This shows how strong North African clubs are in the competition.

This has been a common pattern in recent years, with Arab clubs often doing well in African tournaments. Their strong local leagues, skilled players, and good football systems play a big role in their success on the African stage.