Six clubs have already secured their spots in the quarter-finals, leaving two coveted places up for grabs. Sudanese giants Al-Hilal SC were the first to qualify, followed by defending champions Al Ahly (Egypt), AS FAR (Morocco), Orlando Pirates (South Africa), Esperance (Tunisia), and Pyramids FC (Egypt).
Remaining Group Stage Battles
Group A
The clash between MC Alger and Young Africans in Dar es Salaam promises to be a high-stakes showdown. With MC Alger holding a narrow one-point advantage (8 points) over Yanga (7 points), the Tanzanian champions will be seeking revenge for their 2-0 loss in Algiers last December.
Group B
Raja Casablanca, sitting in third, must win their away match against already-eliminated Maniema Union while hoping Mamelodi Sundowns and AS FAR play to a favorable result in Pretoria. AS FAR are aiming to finish top of the group, but Sundowns, just one point behind, only need a draw to advance.
Other Key Matches
Although Al Ahly, Orlando Pirates, Esperance, and Pyramids have already secured qualification, pride remains at stake in their final group games. Pirates travel to Cairo for a rematch with Al Ahly, following a goalless draw in Soweto two weeks ago. Meanwhile, Al Hilal will seek redemption from last week’s loss to Young Africans with an away win over TP Mazembe.
Matchday 6 Fixtures
Saturday, 18 January
Group A
- 13h00 GMT | TP Mazembe v Al Hilal FC
- 13h00 GMT | Young Africans SC v MC Alger
Group C
- 16h00 GMT | Stade d’Abidjan v CR Belouizdad
- 16h00 GMT | Al Ahly SC v Orlando Pirates FC
Group D
- 19h00 GMT | Esperance v Sagrada Esperança
- 19h00 GMT | Pyramids v Djoliba FC
Sunday, 19 January
Group B
- 16h00 GMT | Maniema Union v Raja Casablanca
- 16h00 GMT | Sundowns v AS FAR
With just two spots left and several decisive fixtures on the horizon, fans can expect an exhilarating conclusion to the group stage as the continent's top clubs vie for glory in the next round.
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