The 2024-2025 CAF Champions League season is heating up as teams vie for spots in the knockout rounds, with some thrilling matchups lined up this weekend.
The action kicked off on January 3, with CR Belouizdad securing a last-minute victory over Al Ahly, ending the match 1-0 thanks to Naoufel Khacef’s goal at the 90+1 minute mark. This match set the tone for what is expected to be another electric weekend of African club football.
Looking toward Saturday, January 4, multiple intriguing fixtures are scheduled. At 15:00 GMT, Young Africans will face off against TP Mazembe, followed by Orlando Pirates taking on Stade d’Abidjan at 18:00 and Raja Casablanca welcoming Mamelodi Sundowns at 21:00. These matches promise intense competition, where teams either look to solidify their standings or revive their hopes following shaky starts.
"We are prepared to play against Young Africans, we have worked on the mistakes of the last game. We believe we will win. Tomorrow is another game, and it is important but not decisive," stated Lamine Ndiaye, the Coach of TP Mazembe, emphasizing the team's readiness for the challenge.
The players echoed similar sentiments. Dickson Job from Young Africans remarked, "We know the importance of tomorrow's game; we are ready. We have made good preparations and the coaches have instructed us on what to do." This reflects the mindset across the teams—that confidence plays a pivotal role on the path to victory.
The Orlando Pirates are gearing up for their big fixture, and Coach Jose Riveiro articulated the challenge they face: "It’s a really, really difficult one against a very good opponent and one we cannot take for granted. It will be tough and requires our full application throughout the match." Likewise, captain Innocent Maela pointed out the significance of playing at home, stating, "It is always nice playing these types of matches at home. We are looking forward to making our fans proud." It’s this intrinsic motivation from both players and fans alike which adds to the atmosphere of these high-stakes games.
Across other fixtures, Stade d'Abidjan is determined to fight against the odds, with Coach Douayere Bessou Serges Alain noting, "We are in a very difficult position but capable of doing well. We have dedicated players who have much to play for." Bamba Drissa, the captain of the team, strongly conveyed hope for their potential comeback, asserting, "We have a lot to play for; things may not have started as we wanted but we are not out yet, and a good result could change everything."
Another exciting encounter is set for Sunday, January 5, as Esperance Club will clash with Egyptian Pyramids Club. This matchup holds significant stakes as Esperance currently leads Group D with 7 points, just 3 behind Pyramids. Upon announcing ticket allocations, Esperance revealed they had arranged for 500 tickets to be set aside for their fans, catered to the interest surrounding this key match. The price set for fans is approximately 1,300 Egyptian pounds—an effort made to encourage attendance. The club expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of response from Pyramids administration concerning transportation arrangements for Tunisian fans.
"The price of the ticket for its fans is about 1,300 Egyptian pounds per ticket," reported the Esperance administration, adding to the accessibility of the game and the spirit of camaraderie among clubs and their supporters.
Overall, the 2024-2025 CAF Champions League has stirred excitement across African football, with league tables poised to shift dramatically following this weekend's fixtures. Fans remain on the edge of their seats as teams battle not only for victories but for the glory of advancing to the knockout stages, making every moment of this competition monumental.