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Eights clubs are bracing themselves for what promises to be exhilarating second-leg matches of the quarterfinals of the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League this weekend with title holders Al Ahly confident of their chances of progress.
With the stage set for the second leg matches, anticipation runs high as teams vie for a coveted spot in the semi-finals as the Egyptian giants look to take advantage of their home tie.
Ahly secured an important away victory in the first leg of the tightly contested matches and with the return leg scheduled to be played in their Cairo fortress, they are confident they will grab a place in the last four.
The defending champions emerged as the sole victors, clinching a crucial 1-0 away win against Simba in Tanzania which has sparked their hopes.
Despite facing relentless pressure from the Tanzanian side, Ahly displayed their championship pedigree, securing victory through an early goal by Ahmed Koka.
Al Ahly’s coach Marcel Koller highlighted the importance of utilizing opportunities in high-stakes matches insisting the victory has boosted their confidence for Friday’s clash.
“The win away has given us confidence,” he remarked, emphasizing the determination and tactical execution of his players.
Meanwhile, Simba coach Abdelhak Benchikha acknowledged the need for improvement for of the return leg in Cairo insisting they must take their chances.
“At this level of football, you must use your chances,” he conceded, underscoring the importance of clinical finishing against formidable opponents like Ahly.
In another fixture expected to be closely contested, Mamelodi Sundowns host Young Africans of Tanzania after playing out to a goalless draw in the first-leg, setting the stage for a tense rematch in Pretoria.
Sundowns’ coach Rulani Mokwena expressed disappointment with missed opportunities in the first leg but remained optimistic about his team’s prospects.
“We can play better,” he asserted, emphasizing the need for improved efficiency in front of goal.
Reflecting on the expected tight tactical battle between the two sides, Young Africans’ coach Miguel Gamondi expressed confidence claiming they still have a chance despite playing away from home.
“This game is still open,” he declared, highlighting his team’s determination to secure qualification.
Elsewhere, TP Mazembe were held to a frustrating goalless draw by Atletico Petroleos, while Esperance de Tunis faced a similar stalemate against Asec Mimosas.
Both Mazembe and Esperance will be eager to rectify their missed opportunities in the return fixtures.
As coaches fine-tune their strategies and players prepare for battle, fans can expect an enthralling weekend of football action across the continent.
QF First Leg Results
Friday, March 29
Simba AC 0–1 Al Ahly SC
Saturday, March 30
TP Mazembe 0–0 Atletico Petroleos
Young Africans 0–0 Mamelodi Sundowns
Esperance de Tunis 0-0 Asec Mimosas
QF Second Leg Fixtures
Friday, April 5
18h00 GMT | Mamelodi Sundowns v Young Africans
20h00 GMT | Al Ahly SC v Simba SC
Saturday, April 6
16h00 GMT | Atletico Petroleos v TP Mazembe
20h00 GMT | Asec Mimosas v Esperance
