Moroccan Clash Headlines Opening Round of CAF Champions League Group Stage

The group stage of the African Champions League kicks off on Tuesday, with exciting matches sure to heat up the competition. Egypt’s Al Ahly, winners of the last two titles, lead the way in a thrilling start to the group stage.

In Group A, Sudan’s Al Hilal will face a tough away match against Tanzania’s Young Africans. Under Florent Ibenge, Al Hilal will be hoping to make a strong start. Meanwhile, Algeria’s Mouloudia face a tough match against TP Mazembe of the Democratic Republic of Congo, marking their return to the continental competition after a four-year absence.

The main event in Group B will be the eagerly awaited Moroccan matchup between Raja Casablanca and FAR Rabat. Raja has won the league title and the domestic cup in previous seasons, and the two teams have been bitter rivals. Nevertheless, they have had a difficult season and are currently in 11th position, while FAR Rabat, managed by coach Hubert Velud, is in third.

The defending champions, Al Ahly, will begin their campaign with a difficult task against Ivorian side Stade Abidjan at Cairo’s International Stadium. Despite a recent league draw, coach Marcel Koller is confident in his team’s ability to secure the three points.

Group C will see Algerian side CR Belouizdad host South Africa’s Orlando Pirates in a clash that both teams are eager to win for a chance at qualification.

In Group D, last season's runners-up, Esperance Tunis, will play Mali's Djoliba in an important match following a recent improvement in form. Meanwhile, Egyptian team Pyramids FC will aim to win against Angola's Sagrada Esperança in front of their home supporters.