Champions League: TP Mazembe without Trésor Mputu against Raja

TP Mazembe will travel to Casablanca this Friday for the first leg of the CAF Champions League quarter-finals against Raja Casablanca without one of their most iconic players, Trésor Mputu. The Congolese playmaker has been absent from the squad for three weeks following a disciplinary sanction earlier this month, forcing coach Pamphile Mihayo to proceed without him for this crucial encounter.

Despite Mputu’s absence, TP Mazembe remain strong, fielding a squad of 19 players that includes key figures and veterans who have been instrumental in the team’s recent performances. Striker Jackson Muleka, a central figure in the club’s attack, will be relied upon to lead the front line, while midfielder Miché Mika, who has regained form in recent days, will provide stability and creativity in the middle of the park. Another notable inclusion is Tanzanian striker Thomas Ulimwengu, who joined the club during the winter transfer window and is expected to add depth to the attack.

Trésor Mputu’s exclusion comes after he was sidelined for disciplinary reasons, marking a turbulent period for the veteran, who has long been considered one of TP Mazembe’s top talents. Even before this sanction, the playmaker had been left out of some matches at the last minute, leaving fans and teammates frustrated, given his influence on the pitch. Despite these setbacks, TP Mazembe have continued to perform well domestically, winning their first five matches of the second half of the season without him.

The Ravens departed Lubumbashi on Sunday evening, beginning their journey to Casablanca, fully aware of the challenge that awaits them against Raja. The Moroccan side, competing at home for this first-leg encounter, will aim to capitalize on the absence of Mputu, but TP Mazembe’s combination of youth and experienced players remains a formidable threat.

While the focus will be on the returning veterans and key attackers, the absence of Mputu is a reminder of the ongoing challenges the club faces off the pitch. Discipline and squad management continue to play a crucial role as the Congolese giants aim to progress in Africa’s premier club competition.

Friday’s first leg will test TP Mazembe’s depth and resilience, highlighting how the team can adapt in high-stakes matches when one of their star players is unavailable. Fans will watch closely to see if Jackson Muleka, Miché Mika, and Thomas Ulimwengu can step up in Mputu’s absence and secure a positive result ahead of the return leg in Lubumbashi.

In summary, TP Mazembe face Raja Casablanca in Casablanca without Trésor Mputu due to disciplinary issues. While the veteran’s absence is significant, the squad includes key players who have demonstrated form and reliability, giving the Ravens a fighting chance in the first leg of this pivotal CAF Champions League tie.