Al Ahly and Pyramids Lead the Charge: CAF Champions League Quarter-Finals Take Shape
Egypt’s Al Ahly secured their place in the CAF Champions League quarter-finals with a 0-0 draw against JS Kabylie of Algeria on Saturday, joining fellow Egyptian side Pyramids in the last eight. The result sees Al Ahly reach nine points in Group B, edging ahead of FAR Rabat and Young Africans.
Group B Tightens: A Race to the Finish
The stalemate in Tizi Ouzou has intensified the competition in Group B. Al Ahly currently leads with nine points, followed closely by FAR Rabat with eight. Young Africans trail with five points, whereas JS Kabylie remain at the bottom with just two. The final group stage match between FAR Rabat and Al Ahly will be crucial, with a potential for goal difference to determine who advances alongside the Egyptian giants.
Power Dynamos Shake Up Group A
While Pyramids had already qualified from Group A, a surprising 2-0 victory for Power Dynamos of Zambia over Renaissance Sportive Berkane of Morocco has thrown the group dynamics into disarray. This win allows Pyramids the opportunity to secure top spot with a victory over Rivers United on Sunday.
Key Results and Standings
Anas Bach’s 85th-minute goal secured a 1-0 win for FAR Rabat against Young Africans, bolstering their quarter-final hopes. However, a complex scenario could unfold if FAR lose to Al Ahly and Young Africans defeat JS Kabylie, potentially leading to a tiebreaker based on goal difference – FAR currently has a +1 goal difference, while Young Africans are at -2.
Simba’s Campaign Ends in Disappointment
Tanzania’s Simba saw their CAF Champions League campaign come to an end with a 1-1 draw against Petro Luanda of Angola. Despite a goal from Anicet Oura, Simba’s winless streak of five matches sealed their fate. Petro Luanda’s hopes of qualification also took a hit, leaving them level on points with Esperance of Tunisia.
Upsets and Surprises
Power Dynamos’ upset victory over Renaissance Sportive Berkane highlighted the unpredictable nature of African club football. Ronel Manyanga and Prince Mumba were the heroes for Dynamos, leveling them on points with Berkane, who retained second place due to a superior head-to-head record.
Looking Ahead: Quarter-Final Contenders
With Al Ahly and Pyramids already through, the remaining quarter-final spots are hotly contested. FAR Rabat and Young Africans face a tense final match in Group B, while the outcome of Group A’s remaining fixtures will determine the final qualifiers. Stade Malien of Mali currently lead Group D with eight points, marking a historic run for the club.
FAQ
What is the current standing of Al Ahly in the CAF Champions League?
Al Ahly is currently in first place in Group B with nine points, having qualified for the quarter-finals.
Which other Egyptian team has qualified for the quarter-finals?
Pyramids is the other Egyptian team that has qualified for the quarter-finals, having advanced from Group A.
What needs to happen for FAR Rabat to also qualify?
FAR Rabat needs to avoid defeat against Al Ahly, or hope for a win for Young Africans against JS Kabylie.
What was the result of the match between Power Dynamos and Renaissance Sportive Berkane?
Power Dynamos defeated Renaissance Sportive Berkane 2-0.
Is Simba still in contention for a quarter-final spot?
No, Simba has been eliminated from the competition after drawing 1-1 with Petro Luanda.
