Champions League: Quarter-finals begin, let the show begin!

The first leg of the CAF Champions League quarter-finals kicks off this Friday, setting the stage for a series of high-stakes and thrilling encounters. Fans can expect intense matches as all eight participating teams are former winners of the competition, collectively boasting an impressive 29 titles. Such a concentration of continental success promises exciting football and tightly contested battles across Africa.

The opening match of the quarter-finals sees defending champions Espérance de Tunis travel to Cairo to face Zamalek. This fixture comes just ten days after their clash in the CAF Super Cup, where the Egyptians secured a 3-1 victory over the Tunisian side. With that result fresh in memory, revenge will be high on Espérance’s agenda, and the encounter is expected to be fiercely competitive. Both teams have a rich history in African football, and the tactical battle between them is anticipated to be a key talking point as the quarter-finals commence.

Also on Friday, Raja Athletic Club will host Tout Puissant Mazembe in Casablanca. This match promises to be an explosive duel, showcasing the attacking prowess and tactical discipline of two clubs with strong continental pedigrees. Moroccan fans are expected to create an electric atmosphere, providing full support to Raja as they aim to capitalize on home advantage and secure a favorable first-leg result against the Congolese giants.

The quarter-final action continues on Saturday with two more highly anticipated matchups. Al Ahly, the Egyptian powerhouse, takes on South Africa’s Mamelodi Sundowns. This clash pits experience and tactical acumen against youthful energy and physicality, with both sides eager to establish a commanding position ahead of the return leg. Meanwhile, Wydad Athletic Club will face Etoile du Sahel, in a fixture that promises to blend technical finesse with disciplined strategy. The Moroccan and Tunisian sides will look to leverage their strengths and secure early advantages in these continental battles.

The schedule for the first leg is as follows (all times in GMT):

Friday
4:00 pm – Zamalek vs. Espérance de Tunis
7:00 pm – Raja vs. TP Mazembe

Saturday
4:00 pm – Al Ahly vs. Mamelodi Sundowns
7:00 pm – Wydad vs. Etoile du Sahel

With the first-leg fixtures underway, each team aims to assert dominance, build momentum, and gain a psychological edge heading into the second leg. Fans can expect a mix of tactical battles, individual brilliance, and dramatic moments as Africa’s top clubs vie for a place in the semi-finals. The quarter-finals not only highlight the continent’s rich footballing tradition but also provide a platform for players and teams to showcase their talent on a prestigious stage, making this round one of the most eagerly anticipated phases of the CAF Champions League.