AS Vita Club Eye Champions League Final Despite Sfaxien Challenge
AS Vita Club travel to Tunisia this weekend with their eyes firmly set on a place in the CAF Champions League final. Following a hard-fought 2-1 victory in the first leg against CS Sfaxien in Kinshasa, the Congolese giants need only a draw in Saturday’s return leg in Sfax to reach the final of Africa’s most prestigious club competition.
Despite holding the advantage, head coach Florent Ibenge remains cautious and realistic about the challenges that lie ahead. “We know it won’t be easy in Sfax,” Ibenge said. “We made things more complicated for ourselves by conceding at home, but our spirits are high. We’re not going there to sit back — we’ll try to score one goal, or even two, to make things difficult for them.”
Ibenge has guided AS Vita Club to an impressive campaign so far, and his side demonstrated resilience and attacking flair in the first leg. However, the away goal conceded in Kinshasa has added a layer of pressure, meaning the tie remains finely balanced.
Still, the mood within the Vita Club camp remains optimistic. “Everything is going well within the team,” Ibenge assured. “We’re aware that we have a great opportunity in front of us. The final is within reach, and we are determined to get there.”
A key figure in the first leg, forward Firmin Mubele, who found the net before being substituted due to injury, remains part of the travelling squad. Ibenge confirmed the striker’s inclusion and hinted he could be fit to play if his recovery progresses as expected. “Mubele is with us. If he recovers in time, he could feature in the second leg,” the coach stated.
With Mubele potentially available and a squad full of belief, AS Vita Club will look to blend tactical discipline with attacking intent as they aim to complete the job in Sfax. The Congolese outfit, known for their aggressive style and passionate fan base, are hoping to make their first appearance in the CAF Champions League final since 1981.
Their opponents, CS Sfaxien, are no strangers to continental success and will be counting on home advantage to overturn the deficit. But Vita Club’s recent performances suggest they will be a tough team to break down — especially with a place in the final hanging in the balance.
Saturday’s clash promises to be a tense and high-stakes encounter, with AS Vita Club determined to turn their narrow lead into history.
