CAF Confederation Cup: AC Leopards Face Zamalek in Must-Win Clash
AC Leopards of Dolisie will host Egyptian giants Zamalek on Sunday in a decisive Group B encounter on Matchday 4 of the CAF Confederation Cup. With their hopes of qualification hanging by a thread, the Congolese side must secure victory to stay alive in the competition.
Currently sitting in a precarious position, the “Fauves of Niari” know that anything less than three points could spell the end of their continental journey this season. Speaking ahead of the high-stakes clash, AC Leopards head coach Lamine Ndiaye emphasised the do-or-die nature of the fixture.
“This is not just an important match—it’s a crucial one. A result other than victory would effectively eliminate us,” Ndiaye told the CAF website. “We’ve had a good week of preparation. There’s a strong mindset within the group, and we’re focused. What’s been missing recently is a bit of luck and clinical finishing.”
The coach also pointed to defensive lapses as a key weakness his team needs to address. “We’ve conceded too many goals due to lapses in concentration. One player’s error can penalise the whole team. We’ve worked on this, and I believe things will be different tomorrow.”
The first leg in Cairo ended in a 2-0 defeat for the Congolese side—an evening that brought not just sporting disappointment, but a serious scare. AC Leopards captain Rudy Guelord Bhebey Ndey suffered a severe injury following a collision with the Zamalek goalkeeper and has remained hospitalised since.
Ndiaye acknowledged the emotional weight the team is carrying, drawing strength from their injured captain’s fighting spirit. “Our players are motivated not just by qualification, but by the will to play for their teammate. Bhebey Ndey, despite being in a hospital bed for two weeks, is showing incredible courage. He sent us a message saying he won’t give up and will fight to recover quickly. His strength is an inspiration.”
With Zamalek leading the group and in strong form, the challenge is considerable. But the Leopards, buoyed by home support and a deep sense of solidarity, will look to rise to the occasion in Dolisie. A win would reinvigorate their campaign and honour their captain’s resilience.
Kick-off is scheduled for Sunday evening, and the Congolese side will hope the Stade Denis Sassou Nguesso becomes the site of a pivotal turnaround in their continental quest.
