CAF Champions League: Carteron Sets High Expectations for Mazembe in Group A
Tout Puissant Mazembe head coach Patrice Carteron is already laying out a clear roadmap as his side prepares for the CAF Champions League group stage. Drawn into Group A, Mazembe will face Al Hilal (Sudan), MA Tétouan (Morocco), and Smouha SC (Egypt)—a balanced yet challenging lineup.
“We must win all our home games and pick up as many points as possible away,” said Carteron on TPM’s official website, emphasizing the importance of a strong start and consistency throughout.
Key Highlights from Carteron’s Comments:
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Opening Match vs. Al Hilal:
“We know this team well,” he recalled, referencing last season’s split results—a 1–0 loss in Khartoum and a 3–1 home win. “They’re a very athletic side.” -
Facing MA Tétouan:
Though not as storied as Wydad or Raja, Carteron warned:“They eliminated Al Ahly, and that alone shows we must respect them.”
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Smouha SC:
Egypt’s league runner-up is seen as another unpredictable threat, having knocked out Congo’s AC Léopards. -
Strategic Edge:
TP Mazembe will end the group stage at home, which Carteron sees as an advantage if qualification is still at stake.
Group A — CAF Champions League 2015:
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TP Mazembe (DR Congo)
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Al Hilal (Sudan)
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MA Tétouan (Morocco)
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Smouha SC (Egypt)
With three home games in Kamalondo, Carteron’s men aim to capitalize on home advantage and push through to the semi-finals—a stage the French coach is clearly targeting.
