CAF Confederation Cup First Legs Deliver Shocks, Thrillers and Statement Wins

The 2025/26 TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup kicked off with a weekend that delivered everything.

The competition is known for shocks, resilience, and emphatic declarations of intent did not disappoint.

From Dar es Salaam to Libreville, underdogs rose while familiar names faltered, setting the tone for a turbulent road toward the group stage.

Leopards Roar in Tanzania

The biggest upset unfolded in Dar es Salaam, where Royal Leopards of Eswatini silenced the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium with a stunning 2–0 triumph over Young Africans. 

Yanga, billed among the favourites, were undone by two devastating counters.

Botswana Delight as Chiefs Stumble

Kaizer Chiefs’ trip to Botswana ended in disappointment, as Kaburscop struck late to clinch a 1–0 victory in Gaborone. 

Chiefs pressed and probed but found no way through.

But when the chance arrived, the hosts capitalized to claim one of the biggest wins in their young continental history.

Gabon’s FC 105 Set the Tone

Elsewhere, FC 105 of Gabon began their campaign with purpose, outclassing Zambia’s Zesco United 2–0. 

An early breakthrough gave them control, and with disciplined defending complementing their sharp finishing.

The Gabonese side established a solid platform for the return leg.

Kampala Derby Brings Fireworks In Uganda

National Enterprise Corporation and Nairobi United served up a pulsating 2–2 draw that had all the ingredients of a fierce derby. 

Twice the home side led, and twice the Kenyans struck back, keeping the tie delicately balanced ahead of the Nairobi clash.

Narrow Margins in Kigali

Rwanda’s Rayon Sports were undone by a single lapse against Tanzania’s Singida Black Stars, who emerged 1–0 winners in Kigali. 

With their slender lead, Singida return home holding the upper hand but knowing the contest is far from settled.

Hafia Roll Back the Years

Three-time continental champions Hafia delivered a vintage display, thrashing Bhantal 3–0 away from home. 

Composed on the ball and clinical in the final third, the Guinean side now look firmly in command of the tie.

Tunisian Authority on Display

Stade Tunisien rounded off the action with a professional 2–0 win over Mauritania’s SNIM. 

Their superior technical craft came through after the break, leaving the Tunis-based side with both a cushion and the momentum for the second leg.

The Stage is Set

With several favourites humbled and challengers emboldened, the CAF Confederation Cup early rounds are already living up to their billing. 

The decisive return legs, promises even more turbulence as clubs fight for a coveted place in the group stage.