The fifth round of the CAF Champions League group stage kicks off on Friday, with teams across all groups vying for quarter-final berths.
Al Hilal remains the only team to have secured qualification, leaving the competition wide open for the remaining spots.
Group A: Scramble for Second Place
Al Hilal, sitting comfortably at the top, will host Young Africans on Sunday. The Tanzanian side must secure points to keep their hopes of advancing alive.
Meanwhile, MC Alger will face TP Mazembe on Friday. With a win, the Algerians could significantly bolster their chances of claiming the second spot in the group.
Group B: Moroccan Derby Decider
In an all-Moroccan clash, leaders FAR Rabat take on Raja Casablanca on Saturday.
A draw would be sufficient for FAR to confirm their place in the quarter-finals, while Raja faces a must-win scenario to remain in contention.
In the group’s other match, Mamelodi Sundowns travel to Congo to meet Maniema Union, with both teams eager to keep their qualification dreams alive.
Group C: Al Ahly’s Last Stand
Orlando Pirates, who lead the group, can secure their place in the knockout stage with a win against CR Belouizdad on Sunday.
The Algerian side, however, aims to stay in the hunt for progression. Al Ahly, currently third, faces a critical game against Stade d’Abidjan on Saturday.
Anything less than a victory could spell an early exit for the Egyptian giants.
Group D: Pyramids and Esperance Neck and Neck
Group D remains tightly contested, with Pyramids and Esperance locked on equal points at the top.
Both sides will play away fixtures this weekend, with Pyramids facing Sagrada Esperança and Esperance taking on Djoliba.
Victories for either team could provide the edge needed to secure a place in the quarter-finals.
As the CAF Champions League group stage nears its conclusion, every match carries significant implications.
Teams must seize their opportunities or risk falling short of the prestigious tournament’s next phase.
