The second round of the CAF competition is set to continue on Sunday as teams across the continent aim to secure crucial first-leg victories to ease the pressure of the return legs. With reputations and hopes of continental glory at stake, Sunday promises interesting encounters as clubs vie for supremacy.
Orapa United vs Dynamos FC
In Botswana, Orapa United will welcome Zimbabwean giants Dynamos FC. Orapa will look to capitalize on their home advantage and the energy of their supporters, who are eagerly anticipating an upset. Dynamos, however, have a rich history in continental football and will bring experience and determination to the encounter. Both teams know that a win here would make the return leg in Zimbabwe far more manageable. For Orapa, it’s about making their presence felt in the competition, while Dynamos seek to reinforce their status as African heavyweights.
FC Bravos do Maquis vs FC Saint-Eloi Lupopo
In Angola, FC Bravos do Maquis will lock horns with FC Saint-Eloi Lupopo from the Democratic Republic of Congo. Bravos do Maquis, known for their solid home performances, will try to dictate the pace of the game and control possession. Saint-Eloi Lupopo, a team with a proud tradition in African football, will be hoping to grab an away goal, which could prove crucial in the return leg. The Congolese side is expected to play with flair and confidence, but Bravos will be determined to stand their ground.
Rukinzo FC vs CS Sfaxien
Burundi’s Rukinzo FC face a daunting challenge as they host Tunisian powerhouse CS Sfaxien. The Burundian side, doing well in their domestic league, will need to play the game of their lives to overcome the formidable North Africans. Sfaxien, with their illustrious CAF pedigree, will be looking to wrap up the tie in the first leg, leaving little for Rukinzo to fight for in the return match. But the home side, buoyed by their fans, may have a surprise or two up their sleeves.
ASCK vs ASEC Mimosa
In Togo, ASCK will be tested to their limits as they take on ASEC Mimosa of Côte d’Ivoire. The Ivorians, with their continental experience and talented squad, looked favorites to advance, but ASCK will not go down without a fight. The Togolese side will aim to stay compact defensively and exploit any counter-attacking opportunities that arise. ASEC, meanwhile, will look to assert dominance from the outset and avoid any slip-ups that could make the return leg tricky.
Al Ahly Tripoli vs Simba SC
Over in Libya, Al Ahly Tripoli will clash with Tanzanian giants Simba SC. This is a game that promises end-to-end action, with both sides possessing attacking firepower. Al Ahly, playing on home soil, will look to take advantage of the travel-weary Tanzanians and push for a result that gives them a cushion for the second leg. Simba, however, have a strong squad and are no strangers to high-pressure situations. They’ll be gunning for at least an away goal, hoping to bring the fight back to Dar es Salaam.
Al Hilal vs El Masry
Sudan’s Al Hilal will host Egyptian side El Masry in what could be one of the most tightly contested matches of the round. Al Hilal, known for their passionate fanbase, will look to overwhelm the visitors with their fast-paced play and high energy. El Masry, however, are seasoned campaigners in African football, and their experience in navigating tricky away ties could be crucial. Both teams will be fully aware that a solid first-leg performance is vital to their hopes of progressing.
As the CAF competition enters this critical stage, Sunday’s matches will be a battle of nerves, skill, and determination, with teams hoping to take a decisive step toward the next round.