CAF Champions League: Al Hilal Gearing Up for Decisive Clash Against TP Mazembe
Al Hilal will host TP Mazembe this Sunday in Omdurman in what promises to be a decisive encounter in the CAF Champions League group stage. With just three points separating the two teams, the Sudanese giants must secure victory to stay firmly in contention for a semi-final spot.
Head coach Nabil Kouki stressed the magnitude of the challenge in a pre-match press conference:
“My players are aware of the importance of this match. It will be crucial for the two best teams in the group this Sunday.”
Al Hilal, who suffered a surprising home defeat to Moghreb Tetouan in their previous outing, are determined to avoid a repeat scenario:
“Al Hilal is a great club; it has never lost two matches in a row at home. It was a misstep falling to Moghreb Tetouan—we missed a penalty and 13 chances in the second half. It can’t be the same against Mazembe.”
The Tunisian coach underlined the comprehensive preparation his team has undergone:
“We have prepared for it from every angle—psychological, technical, and others. Our option will be to win this match. If we play as well as we did against Tetouan, we will have a good chance of getting a positive result.”
TP Mazembe, on the other hand, are currently sitting at the top of the group and will look to solidify their lead. But Kouki’s men are ready to fight, with a strong home record historically playing in their favor.
A victory for Al Hilal would throw Group A wide open, setting up a thrilling conclusion to the group phase.