Ahly face familiar foe TP Mazembe in CAFCL semi finals
Al Ahly players train ahead of the CAFCL semifinal first leg encounter against TP Mazembe. PHOTO | COURTESY
What you need to know:
- The stage is set for a thrilling encounter at Stade TP Mazembe in Lubumbashi, with kickoff slated for 4 pm East African Time.
Dar es Salaam. After a two-week break, the CAF Champions League kicks off again on April 20, 2024, with a highly anticipated clash between defending champions Al Ahly of Egypt and TP Mazembe of DR Congo.
The stage is set for a thrilling encounter at Stade TP Mazembe in Lubumbashi, with kickoff slated for 4 pm East African Time.
Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan will have his work cut out for him as both teams vie for a strong showing in the first leg.
This isn't the first time these two powerhouses have locked horns. History reveals four previous meetings in the CAF Champions League group stages, with Al Ahly holding a slight edge.
The Egyptian giants boast two wins to TP Mazembe's one, with the other encounter ending in a stalemate.
TP Mazembe players in a past match
Although there are no familiar faces remaining from those past clashes, both teams come into the competition boasting impressive recent form.
TP Mazembe currently sits atop the DR Congo Ligue 1 table, undefeated after six matches. Meanwhile, Al Ahly finds itself in ninth place domestically, but with several games in hand compared to the league leader.
Key Players to Watch:
Al Ahly - Hussein El Shahat: This 31-year-old winger has been on fire, scoring a remarkable five goals in just 10 games. His performance will be crucial for Al Ahly's hopes of retaining their title.
TP Mazembe - Glody Likonza: A rising star, this talented Congolese midfielder has been a driving force for TP Mazembe. Likonza's dominance in central midfield, with three goals and an assist so far, will be a key factor for the home team.
With both sides hungry for victory, this first leg promises an exciting display of African football.
