Slimani Falters, Belaïli Shines as CAF Champions League kicks off

The opening matches of the CAF Champions League group stage provided dramatic moments, with key players experiencing highs and lows. TP Mazembe and MC Alger played out a goalless draw, while Florent Ibenge’s Al Hilal stunned Young Africans with a 2-0 victory in Tanzania. Mamelodi Sundowns, semi-finalists last season, were held to a 0-0 stalemate by Maniema Union.

Defending champions Al Ahly secured a 4-2 win over Stade d’Abidjan, who delivered a spirited performance.

Pyramids FC crushed Sagrada Esperança 5-1, with three late goals sealing the win in Cairo.

In Algiers, CR Belouizdad suffered a narrow 2-1 defeat to Orlando Pirates, while Espérance Tunis, powered by two assists from Youcef Belaïli, thrashed Djoliba 5-0.

Raja Casablanca, however, endured a disappointing start, losing 2-0 at home to AS FAR Rabat despite the presence of Islam Slimani.

The next round of fixtures, scheduled for December 6–8, promises exciting clashes.

AS FAR will host Mamelodi Sundowns, Al Hilal faces TP Mazembe, and Raja will seek redemption against Maniema Union.

Elsewhere, Al Ahly travels to Orlando Pirates, while Espérance Tunis aims to maintain form against Sagrada Esperança.