CAF Champions League: TP Mazembe Prepare for Stern Test Against Stade Malien in Bamako
TP Mazembe have arrived in Bamako ahead of their crucial CAF Champions League round of 16 first leg against Malian giants Stade Malien, set to be played this Saturday at the Modibo Keita Stadium.
The Congolese club, four-time Champions League winners, are looking to gain an early advantage in the tie, but they are under no illusions about the difficulty of the task that awaits them in the Malian capital.
Mazembe travel to West Africa on the back of a surprise 2-1 defeat to Shark XI in their domestic league opener in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Despite the setback, the mood in camp remains focused and determined as they switch their attention to continental duties.
Defender Joël Kimwaki, speaking to the club’s official website, underlined the importance of adapting quickly to the conditions in Bamako.
“It will probably be very hot during the match, which is why arriving in Mali a few days early was the right decision,” Kimwaki said. “The pitch is of good quality, but we know this will be a tough game against a Stade Malien side that rarely loses at home. They will be eager to make a statement.”
Stade Malien, one of Mali’s most decorated clubs, are known for their resilience at home and will be looking to use home advantage to take the upper hand in the tie. The match is also seen as a chance for redemption, following recent near-misses in continental competitions.
Kimwaki, a mainstay in Mazembe’s defence, reiterated the club’s objective: to take a major step toward qualification before the return leg in Lubumbashi.
“We know how difficult this match will be. Stade Malien are strong at home, but we came here to take an option on qualification,” he added during the team’s pre-match press conference.
Mazembe, who boast considerable experience on the continental stage, will look to their attacking firepower and tactical discipline to navigate what is expected to be a charged atmosphere at the Modibo Keita Stadium.
The return leg will be held in Lubumbashi in the coming weeks, with the aggregate winner advancing to the lucrative group stage of Africa’s premier club competition.
