The 2024/25 TotalEnergies CAF Champions League will see prominent African teams in the group stages, including defending champions Al Ahly SC, along with former title holders Mamelodi Sundowns, Orlando Pirates, and TP Mazembe, who all secured their spots on Saturday.
In South Africa, Orlando Pirates qualified for the group stages for the first time in five years by defeating Botswana’s Jwaneng Galaxy 1-0, achieving a 3-0 aggregate victory thanks to a late goal from Monnapule Saleng.
Mamelodi Sundowns also progressed, dominating Eswatini’s Mbabane Swallows with another 4-0 win, finishing with an aggregate score of 8-0.
Reigning champions Al Ahly easily advanced by beating Kenya’s Gor Mahia 3-0 in Cairo, replicating their first leg result.
TP Mazembe, despite having a 2-0 first leg lead, managed to fend off a determined Red Arrows team, winning 2-1 at home for a 4-1 aggregate.
In a surprising turn, Petro de Luanda’s hopes were dashed by DR Congo’s AS Maniema Union, who advanced to the group stages for the first time after a goalless draw, having won the first leg 2-1.
The TotalEnergies CAF Champions League action continues on Sunday, with more teams vying for the remaining group stage spots.
