The journey toward the 2025/26 CAF Champions League group stage officially kicked off this week, with clubs from across Africa stepping onto the continental stage in the Preliminary Round.
The opening legs offered a mix of commanding performances and tense draws, setting up intriguing return fixtures next weekend.
Côte d’Or 0–2 Stade d’Abidjan
In Seychelles, Côte d’Or were undone by Stade d’Abidjan’s efficiency. The Ivorians struck twice without reply, giving themselves a healthy advantage to carry back home.
Dadjè FC 0–0 Al Ahly Tripoli
On the other hand, Benin’s Dadjè FC showed resilience against a seasoned Al Ahly Tripoli side.
With neither team able to break the deadlock, the tie remains wide open ahead of the second leg in Libya.
Wiliete SC 0–3 Young Africans
Young Africans of Tanzania made a powerful statement in Angola. Aziz Andabwile, Edmund Godfrey, and Prince Dube on target as the visitors cruised to a 3–0 win, putting them firmly in control.
Ethiopian Insurance 2–0 Mlandege FC
Backed by their home crowd in Addis Ababa, Ethiopian Insurance eased past Zanzibar’s Mlandege with a 2–0 victory.
They will travel for the return leg with a cushion and growing confidence.
Mogadishu City Club 1–3 Police FC
Somalia’s Mogadishu City Club fought hard but lost to Police FC, who left with a 3–1 win.
Consequently, the Ugandans now have the upper hand in the battle for a second-round spot.
Power Dynamos 1–0 ASEC Mimosas
Ndola was the stage for one of the week’s headline clashes, as Zambian champions Power Dynamos edged out Ivorian giants ASEC Mimosas 1–0. Innocent Kashita’s early strike separated the sides.
Cercle de Joachim 0–3 Petro de Luanda
Petro de Luanda showcased their continental pedigree in Mauritius. The Angolan outfit struck three unanswered goals past Cercle de Joachim, leaving little doubt about their qualification prospects.
Ethiopian Medhin 2–0 Mlandege FC
It was double delight for Ethiopia, as Medhin also secured a 2–0 home victory against Mlandege.
Two sharp finishes ensured the Zanzibar side face an uphill battle in the second leg.
Lioli FC 0–3 Orlando Pirates
Former African champions Orlando Pirates reminded the continent of their pedigree in Lesotho.
Tshegofatso Mabasa bagged a brace before Oswin Appolis sealed a 3–0 win, leaving Lioli with a mountain to climb.
Return Fixtures Await
The decisive second legs will be played from September 26–28. With aggregate winners advancing to the Second Preliminary Round.
The stakes are high; a step closer to the group stage, where reputations are built and legacies forged.
