CAF Champions League Semi-Final: ES Sétif Brace for Fierce Battle Against TP Mazembe in Lubumbashi
The stage is set for a high-stakes clash in Lubumbashi this Sunday as TP Mazembe host ES Sétif in the second leg of the CAF Champions League semi-final. The Algerian side heads into the fixture with a narrow 2-1 advantage from the first leg, but they face the daunting challenge of holding off Mazembe at the intimidating Stade TP Mazembe—an arena known for its electric atmosphere and passionate support.
The equation is simple for the Congolese giants: a 1-0 win would be enough to send them through to the final on away goals. However, breaking down a disciplined Sétif side that went unbeaten during the group stage is no small task.
In preparation for the encounter, ES Sétif have traveled with a lean squad of just 16 players, including two goalkeepers. After arriving in Kinshasa, the team is scheduled to continue to Lubumbashi on match day, a tight travel schedule that adds further pressure ahead of a crucial fixture.
Despite being on the back foot in terms of travel and crowd dynamics, the Algerian side remains composed and quietly confident. Known for their structured defensive play and swift transitions, Sétif are expected to adopt a cautious yet opportunistic approach, aiming to stifle Mazembe’s high-intensity game while looking for chances on the break.
Mazembe, meanwhile, will rely on their attacking firepower and home support to overturn the deficit. The Ravens, who have a storied history in African club football, are eager to return to the final and possibly set up an all-Congolese showdown with AS Vita Club, who secured their spot in the final on Saturday after dispatching CS Sfaxien.
Here is the squad list for ES Sétif:
Goalkeepers:
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Sofiane Khedairia (1)
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Abderaouf Belhani (12)
Defenders:
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Said Aroussi (4)
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Amine Megatli (6)
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Farid Mellouli (20)
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Lyes Boukria (18)
Midfielders:
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Mohamed Lagraâ (26)
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Toufik Zerara (26)
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Sid Ali Lamiri (13)
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Mohamed Rait (8)
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Benjamin Ze Ondo (17)
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Akram Djahnit (30)
Attackers:
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Abdelmalek Ziaya (19)
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Mohamed Benyettou (9)
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El Hadi Belameiri (25)
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Sofiane Younes (3)
With both teams eyeing a place in Africa’s most prestigious club final, Sunday’s showdown promises high drama, tactical intensity, and possibly a historic outcome for Congolese football if Mazembe can complete the turnaround.
