CAF Champions League Matchday 1 kicked off in style on Tuesday, November 26, 2024, with thrilling encounters and surprising results across Africa’s premier club competition. Here’s a recap of the action:
Group A
TP Mazembe 0–0 MC Alger
A cagey affair in Lubumbashi saw TP Mazembe and MC Alger share the spoils in a goalless draw. Both teams were well-organized defensively, denying each other clear-cut opportunities. The result leaves the group wide open.
Young Africans 0–2 Al Hilal SC
Tanzania’s Young Africans suffered a home defeat as Sudanese giants Al Hilal SC claimed all three points with a solid 2–0 victory. Al Hilal’s clinical finishing and disciplined defending made the difference, signaling their intent to dominate the group.
Group B
Mamelodi Sundowns 0–0 AS Maniema Union
In South Africa, Mamelodi Sundowns were held to a surprising stalemate by AS Maniema Union from the DRC. Despite dominating possession, Sundowns failed to convert their chances, leaving their fans frustrated.
Al Ahly FC 4–2 Stade d’Abidjan
Al Ahly showcased their attacking prowess in a high-scoring encounter against Stade d’Abidjan. The Egyptian giants came out 4–2 winners, with a masterclass in finishing, despite a spirited challenge from the Ivorian side.
Group C
Pyramids FC 5–1 GD Sagrada Esperança
Pyramids FC delivered the most emphatic win of the day, crushing Angola’s GD Sagrada Esperança 5–1. The Egyptian side dominated from start to finish, underlining their title ambitions with a spectacular attacking display.
Raja CA 0–2 ASFAR
Moroccan football fans witnessed a surprising result as ASFAR stunned Raja Casablanca with a 2–0 away win. ASFAR’s organized defense and lethal counterattacks silenced the home crowd, giving them a dream start to their campaign.
Group D
CR Belouizdad 1–2 Orlando Pirates
South Africa’s Orlando Pirates started their campaign with an impressive 2–1 victory away to CR Belouizdad. The Buccaneers scored two early goals in the first half to secure the win, showing resilience and determination in a hostile environment.
ES Tunis 4–0 Djoliba AC de Bamako
In Tunisia, Esperance Tunis asserted their dominance with a resounding 4–0 thrashing of Mali’s Djoliba AC. The hosts were relentless in attack, putting on a show for their fans and making an early statement in the tournament.
The opening day of the CAF Champions League 2024/25 season set the stage for what promises to be an exciting competition, with strong performances from seasoned contenders and unexpected results keeping fans on edge. Matchday 2 continues today with equally mouth-watering encounters.
