Today marks the first leg of the CAF Confederation Cup semi-finals, featuring a Tunisian-Tunisian clash between CA Bizertin and CS Sfaxien, followed by Tout Puissant Mazembe facing Stade Malien in Mali.
CA Bizertin, who finished second in Group B, is set to host CS Sfaxien, the group A leaders. This match provides an opportunity for Ruud Krol, who serves as the coach for both Tunisia and Sfaxien, to commence the week of preparation for the playoffs with the Eagles of Carthage.
A notable aspect of the Stade Malien vs. TP Mazembe encounter is the return of Patrice Carteron to Mali. The French coach, who previously led the Malian national team, left under controversial circumstances. Now, he guides his new team in an effort to secure a positive result in Mali before the return match in Lubumbashi.
Cheibane Traoré, a Malian striker for TP Mazembe, expressed confidence that Carteron would be welcomed warmly in Mali, stating, “Carteron is loved in Mali. Malians are honest and love him. He did good things with the national team, although there are people who are not happy with his departure. I am convinced that he will be welcome.”
The schedule for today’s matches:
- 2 p.m. GMT: CA Bizertin vs. CS Sfaxien
- 4 p.m. GMT: Stade Malien vs. TP Mazembe
