CAF Champions League: RS Berkane face Star Sport Academy test in Liberia

RS Berkane begin their CAF Champions League campaign on Saturday, 17 October 2026, when they travel to face Star Sport Academy in the first leg of the second preliminary round.

The match will kick off at 16:00 GMT at the Samuel Kanyon Doe Stadium in Monrovia, Liberia. Although Star Sport Academy are from Sierra Leone, the game has been moved because the club cannot stage it at an approved stadium in their own country.

RS Berkane will be expected to draw on their experience of African competition as they seek to take control of the tie before the return fixture. The second leg is scheduled for 24 October at the Stade Municipal de Berkane.

The Moroccan side have the opportunity to secure a positive result away from home, but their recent league performances have highlighted the need for greater efficiency. Several of their latest domestic matches have ended in draws, leaving them looking for a more decisive display in Monrovia.

Star Sport Academy, meanwhile, will see the game as a chance to measure themselves against an established name in continental football. The Sierra Leonean club reached this stage after drawing both legs of their previous tie against Medina United.

The first meeting ended 0-0, while the second finished 1-1. Star Sport Academy progressed after that contest, and their ability to remain competitive across both matches could make the visitors’ task more difficult.

RS Berkane’s challenge will be to use their greater continental experience without underestimating an opponent determined to produce a strong performance in front of their temporary home crowd.

A victory would give the Moroccan club a clear advantage going into the second leg. At the very least, a result that keeps their qualification hopes firmly intact would leave them in a favourable position ahead of the meeting in Berkane.