CAF Champions League preliminaries: Orlando Pirates and Enugu Rangers poised for crucial showdowns
The CAF Champions League preliminary round reaches a critical juncture this Friday, as several teams compete for a place in the next phase of Africa’s premier club competition. Among the most anticipated encounters are the return legs involving South Africa’s Orlando Pirates, Nigeria’s Enugu Rangers, and Djibouti’s Arta Solar 7.
Enugu Rangers, who secured a narrow 1-0 victory in the first leg against US Zilimadjou of Comoros, are set to host the return fixture on home soil.
The Nigerian side will be looking to capitalize on their advantage and advance to the second preliminary round.
With the backing of their home supporters, Rangers are favored to secure their spot, but Zilimadjou remains a potential threat as they aim to overturn the deficit.
Meanwhile, Arta Solar 7 faces a daunting task as they travel to Tanzania to take on Somalia’s Dekadaha FC. The Djiboutians suffered a 2-0 defeat in the first leg, leaving them with a mountain to climb in the return match.
To progress, Arta Solar 7 will need to deliver an extraordinary performance, something their coach has emphasized in the build-up to the game.
A comeback would be remarkable, but Dekadaha, buoyed by their first-leg success, will be keen to protect their lead and advance to the next round.
The clash between Orlando Pirates and Malagasy side Disciples FC also promises to be a tense affair. The two teams played out a goalless draw in Madagascar during the first leg, leaving everything to play for in the return match in South Africa.
Pirates, with their rich history in continental competitions, are expected to leverage their home advantage to secure progression.
However, Disciples FC, known for their resilience, will not be an easy opponent. The South African side must remain vigilant to avoid any surprises as they seek to move forward in the tournament.
These matches will determine which teams advance to the second preliminary round of the CAF Champions League, bringing them one step closer to the group stages.
For the clubs involved, the stakes are high, as they not only aim for progression but also seek to establish themselves on the continental stage.
Friday’s CAF Champions League Preliminary Round Matches:
- Enugu Rangers FC (Nigeria) vs. US Zilimadjou (Comoros)
- Dekadaha FC (Somalia) vs. Arta Solar 7 (Djibouti) – in Tanzania
- Orlando Pirates (South Africa) vs. Disciples FC (Madagascar)
As the action unfolds, fans across the continent will be watching closely, eager to see which teams can rise to the occasion and secure their places in the next round of Africa’s most prestigious club competition.
