CAF Confederation Cup: Maniema Union seek powerful start as Azam FC arrive in Kinshasa for Group B opener

Azam FC and AS Maniema Union meet on Sunday, 23 November, at the Stade des Martyrs in Kinshasa for the opening fixture of Group B in the CAF Confederation Cup, a contest both sides view as vital to gaining early footing in their continental journey.

The visitors from Tanzania travel with confidence after an assured qualifying campaign.

Azam FC’s progression to the group stage was driven by the sharp form of striker Jephté Kitambala, who struck four goals in three matches to help secure their place.

Under the guidance of Congolese coach Florent Ibenge, the team arrives with clear ambition to extend its strong run into the group phase.

Maniema Union, meanwhile, intend to make the most of familiar surroundings as they host the first matchday.

The Congolese side, accustomed to the demands of African competitions, will look to translate their experience and home support into a commanding start.

Their aspirations in this year’s tournament rest on building early momentum and showing they can contend seriously within a competitive Group B.

Speaking ahead of the fixture, Azam FC coach Florent Ibenge acknowledged the significance of the encounter.

Describing the match as full of emotion, he praised Maniema Union’s development and the rising standard of Congolese football.

Despite the sentiment surrounding the occasion, he stressed that his squad would approach the task with complete focus and determination.

Sunday’s contest also brings several personal reunions.

Kitambala will line up against his former club, adding an extra emotional layer to his return to Kinshasa.

For Maniema Union’s physical trainer, Kimoto, the evening marks a meeting with a familiar figure: Ibenge, with whom he celebrated the 2016 CHAN title. These storylines contribute to the anticipation surrounding a match already rich in competitive stakes.

Both clubs enter a demanding group where every result holds weight, and edges are likely to be narrow.

This opening fixture is expected to offer an early indication of how each side intends to approach the campaign, as well as the tactical strategies that may shape Group B in the weeks ahead.

The clash in Kinshasa sets the tone for what promises to be a fiercely contested group stage, with Azam FC and Maniema Union each seeking an authoritative start to articulate their ambitions on the continental stage.