The lineup for the group stage of Africa’s biggest club competition, the CAF Champions League, has largely been determined.
Except for the Pyramids–Ethiopia Insurance and RS Berkane–Al Ahli Tripoli fixtures, all second-round matches have been completed.
Zambian side Power Dynamos managed to overcome Uganda’s Vipers. Sudanese club Al Hilal comfortably advanced past Kenya’s strong side Kenya Police, while Tanzania’s formidable team Young Africans easily defeated Silver Strikers.
One of the biggest surprises of the round came when last season’s semifinalists, Orlando Pirates of South Africa, were eliminated on penalties by Congolese outfit FC Saint-Éloi Lupopo after the two legs ended in a draw.
Atlético Petróleos de Luanda defeated Stade d’Abidjan, Espérance overcame Rahimo, and Simba breezed past Nsingizini Hotspurs, leaving no room for upsets. Last season’s finalist, Mamelodi Sundowns, showed no mercy to Remo Stars, winning 7–1 on aggregate.
Record champions Al Ahly advanced comfortably after winning both legs against Aigle Noir, while AS FAR bounced back from a 1–1 draw in the first leg to beat Horoya 3–0 and progress.
Other teams that have reached the group stage include Stade Malien, Muludiya, JS Kabylie, and Rivers United.