As the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League preliminary round draws to a thrilling close, the excitement is palpable as teams vie for advancement to the second qualifying round. This past weekend’s fixtures delivered gripping moments and decisive results, setting the stage for a dramatic conclusion.
Saturday, 27 September: Key Results
In a tightly contested encounter, ASAS from Djibouti faced off against Aigle Noir of Burundi. The match ended in a 1-1 draw, leaving the aggregate score level at 1-1. However, Aigle Noir advanced to the next round, thanks to their away goals rule advantage, showcasing the unpredictable nature of knockout football.
Mozambique’s Black Bulls secured their spot in the next round with a narrow 1-0 victory over Congo’s Leopard, progressing with an aggregate scoreline of 1-0, demonstrating their defensive resilience.
Viper FC Uganda
The powerhouse Orlando Pirates from South Africa delivered an impressive performance with a resounding 4-0 victory over Lesotho’s Lioli. With a 7-0 aggregate score, the Pirates showcased their attacking prowess, firmly establishing themselves as contenders in this year’s tournament.
In a tense battle, Malawi’s Silver Strikers ended in a stalemate against Elgeco Plus, with the match finishing 0-0. The two teams shared the aggregate score of 1-1, but the Strikers moved on thanks to the away goals rule, adding to the nail-biting atmosphere of the weekend.
Zanzibar’s Mlandege narrowly edged out Ethiopian Insurance with a 3-2 victory, resulting in a thrilling aggregate win of 4-3. The Ethiopian side demonstrated their fighting spirit but ultimately fell short in the crucible of this knockout tie.
Meanwhile, Tanzania’s Young Africans showcased their dominance against Wiliete from Angola, securing a 2-0 win and an impressive aggregate of 5-0. Their impeccable form makes them a team to watch in the coming rounds.
Guinea’s Horoya continued their strong campaign with a 2-0 victory over Al Hilal Benghazi of Libya, clinching their place with a 2-1 aggregate. Petro Atlético from Angola also sailed through with a commanding 3-0 win against Cercle de Joachim, finishing with a 6-0 aggregate.
Horoya FC Guinea
Other notable results included Vipers from Uganda overcoming African Stars, Stade Malien dispatching Tempête MOCAF 2-0 (7-0 aggregate), and Espérance Tunis defeating AS FAN with a 4-1 scoreline, establishing them all as formidable forces.
Moroccan side FAR Rabat triumphed 2-1 over Real Banjul, progressing comfortably with a 4-1 aggregate. MC Alger and Berkane both posted solid victories as well, securing their spots in the next round.
Sunday, 28 September: Upcoming Fixtures
As the tournament continues, anticipation builds for the remaining fixtures scheduled for Sunday. Teams will battle it out, with several high-stakes matches expected. Notable fixtures include Nsingizini Hotspurs against Simba Bhora, as well as ASEC Mimosas clashing with Power Dynamos.
With every match holding the potential for dramatic twists, fans are on the edge of their seats, eager to witness who will advance and who will face elimination in this thrilling continental showdown. The road to the CAF Champions League title is wide open, and the excitement is far from over!
