The CAF Champions League Round of 32 kicked off with a series of intense matches, with the favorites proving their dominance. This weekend’s fixtures showcased some thrilling results across the continent, with Wydad Casablanca, Enyimba, and Zesco United all recording impressive wins. Here’s a rundown of the action:
Big Wins for the Favorites
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Wydad Casablanca (Morocco) continued their strong form with a resounding 5-1 victory over CNAPS from Madagascar. The Moroccan side showed their class and will be confident going into the second leg.
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Enyimba (Nigeria) was equally impressive, putting in a commanding performance at home to crush Vital’O of Burundi 5-1. Their attacking prowess was on full display, and they look set to advance.
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Zesco United (Zambia) were dominant in their match against Horoya from Guinea, securing a comfortable 4-1 win. The Zambians took full control of the game and will be favorites heading into the return leg.
Competitive Fixtures
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TP Mazembe (DR Congo), the defending champions, were held to a 2-2 draw away against Saint George in Ethiopia. Despite a good performance, they couldn’t secure a win in front of nearly 60,000 spectators at the massive stadium. However, the away goals may give them an edge for the second leg.
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Mamelodi Sundowns (South Africa) cruised to a 2-0 win over AC Leopards of Congo in Pretoria, strengthening their position in the tie.
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Kaizer Chiefs (South Africa) suffered a disappointing loss at home, going down 0-1 to ASEC Mimosas from Ivory Coast. The South African side will need to turn things around in the return leg.
Other Results
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Club Africain (Tunisia) edged MO Bejaia (Algeria) 1-0 in a tightly contested match.
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Ahly Tripoli (Libya) secured a narrow 1-0 win over El Hilal (Sudan), while Recreativo do Libolo (Angola) held Ahly (Egypt) to a 0-0 draw.
Sunday’s Results
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AS Vita (DR Congo) managed a 1-0 win over Ferroviaro (Mozambique), while Warri Wolves (Nigeria) fell to El Merreikh (Sudan) 0-1.
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Etoile du Congo (Congo) played to a 1-1 draw with ES Setif (Algeria).
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St George (Ethiopia) shared the spoils with TP Mazembe (DR Congo), finishing 2-2.
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Enyimba (Nigeria) and Vital’O (Burundi) played an exciting match with Enyimba winning 5-1.
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OC Khouribga (Morocco) and Etoile du Sahel (Tunisia) ended in a 1-1 draw.
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Union Douala (Cameroon) lost 0-1 to Zamalek (Egypt).
Looking Ahead
With these first-leg results, teams like Wydad Casablanca, Enyimba, and Zesco United are well-positioned to progress, while others like Kaizer Chiefs and Warri Wolves will need to mount a strong comeback in their respective second legs. The CAF Champions League is shaping up to be as competitive as ever, with every club fighting hard for a place in the coveted group stages.
