CAF Champions League: TP Mazembe Aim for Semi-Final Spot in Crucial Clash Against Al Hilal
TP Mazembe are on the brink of securing a place in the CAF Champions League semi-finals, as they prepare to face Al Hilal this Sunday in a pivotal Group A encounter in Omdurman, Sudan.
The Congolese giants currently top the group with a three-point lead over the Sudanese side, and a victory tonight would confirm their progression to the final four. A draw — particularly one with goals — would also be a valuable result, given the tightly contested nature of the group.
Mazembe head coach Patrice Carteron emphasised the importance of the match and the ambition driving his squad.
“Our goal is to win the Champions League this season. The pressure is there, and it’s up to us to embrace it — even create it. It’s a positive pressure because we’re top of the group,” said Carteron in a pre-match press conference, as published on the club’s website.
“Yes, we lead by three points, but if we lose in Khartoum, Al Hilal could overtake us on goal difference. That’s why we came here to get a great result, not just defend our position.”
TP Mazembe enter the tie on the back of two consecutive wins over Egypt’s Smouha SC, victories that have put them in a strong position. A goalless draw in the first leg against Al Hilal in Lubumbashi leaves tonight’s clash finely poised.
Carteron, however, warned of the threat posed by a motivated Al Hilal side:
“Al Hilal are cornered — they have to win. In Lubumbashi, they stayed deep and defended. This time, they’ll need to come forward, which could open up space for us. We need to maintain our recent defensive solidity and take advantage on the counterattack.”
The French coach also reflected on how the group has become more open following Al Hilal’s defeat to Moghreb Tétouan, who remain in contention.
“I had hoped that this match in Khartoum would simply determine who finishes first and second. But Al Hilal’s loss to Tétouan has changed the dynamics. Now, all three teams are still in the race for qualification. It’s hard to predict which two will go through.”
Tonight’s showdown in Sudan promises to be one of the most decisive fixtures of the group stage, with TP Mazembe looking to take a definitive step toward a potential fifth Champions League title.
