Azam FC are eager to break new ground by qualifying for the CAF Champions League group stage for the first time, ahead of a stern test against APR FC.

With the first leg scheduled for August 18 at the Azam Complex, the 2014 Premier League champions are well aware of the challenge ahead, with club officials describing the match as a tough test.

Azam spokesman Hashim Ibwe expressed the club’s anticipation for a closely contested battle: “We expect a stern test when we face APR in the CAF Champions League first leg on August 18 at Chamanzi Complex. It’s a crucial match that could determine who advances to the next round.”

Last season, Azam were knocked out of the CAF Confederation Cup by Bahir Dar Kenema on penalties after a 3-3 aggregate score. APR, on the other hand, were eliminated by Pyramids FC with a 6-1 defeat.

This season, APR have undergone a massive recruitment drive in a bid to break the psychological barrier that has hindered Rwandan clubs on the African stage.

A victory in the two-legged tie will enable Azam to advance to the next round, where they could potentially face either Zanzibar’s JKU or Egypt’s Pyramids FC.