The quest for the CAF Champions League crown intensifies this weekend as record-holders Al Ahly and defending champions Pyramids FC headline a series of high-stakes North African derbies.
In the weekend’s marquee fixture, Al Ahly travels to Tunisia on Sunday for a historic showdown with Esperance at the Hammadi Agrebi Stadium.
These two giants have defined the tournament’s history, and Al Ahly aims for a vital away win to silence the fierce Radès crowd.
On Friday, defending champions Pyramids FC face a disciplined AS FAR side in Rabat. The Egyptians are in top form but face a resilient Moroccan outfit known for their home-turf dominance.
In Pretoria, Mamelodi Sundowns host the tournament’s “dark horse” Stade Malien. Sundowns are favorites but must be wary of a Malian side that topped Group D and has nothing to lose.
Morocco’s Berkane looks to leverage their continental experience on Saturday against Sudan’s Al Hilal, a side specialized in counter-attacking football.
With a $6 million winner’s prize on the line, these first-leg clashes are set to provide maximum intensity across the continent.
