The 2024/25 CAF Champions League promises thrilling encounters as title-holders Al Ahly of Egypt have been paired with Orlando Pirates of South Africa in a highly anticipated Group C match-up.
This group-stage draw, held at the Confederation of African Football (CAF) headquarters in Cairo, sets the stage for fierce battles as the best clubs in Africa vie for continental glory.
Al Ahly’s Dominance and Quest for a Historic Third Title
Al Ahly, often regarded as the powerhouse of African football, is chasing an unprecedented third consecutive CAF Champions League title.
The Cairo Red Devils, managed by Swiss tactician Marcel Koller, have been on an extraordinary run, going unbeaten in their last 24 Champions League matches. Their last defeat came early last year, when they faced a humiliating 5-2 loss against Mamelodi Sundowns in South Africa.
Our 2024/25 #TotalEnergiesCAFCL
Group C Draw is confirmed⚫⚪⭐#OrlandoPirates #OnceAlways pic.twitter.com/uL9GXlD1uz
— Orlando Pirates (@orlandopirates) October 7, 2024
Despite this setback, Ahly bounced back stronger, setting a Champions League record last season by conceding just one goal in 14 matches, eventually clinching their 12th title.
Their defensive solidity, coupled with their attacking prowess, makes them the team to beat in this edition. Even with the long-term injury of their star goalkeeper and captain Mohamed El Shenawy, backup Mostafa Shobeir rose to the occasion, stepping up in nine crucial matches.
The Egyptian giants have history with Orlando Pirates, as the two sides last met in the 2013 CAF Champions League final.
Al Ahly triumphed then, winning 2-0 in Cairo after a 1-1 draw in Soweto. This upcoming clash in Group C is set to reignite the rivalry, with both teams eager to prove their dominance on the continental stage.
Orlando Pirates: Ready to Challenge Africa’s Best
Orlando Pirates, one of South Africa’s most decorated clubs, will be looking to dethrone the reigning champions and make their mark once again in African football.
After an impressive domestic season, the Buccaneers are prepared to challenge Al Ahly, as well as other formidable opponents like Chabab Belouizdad of Algeria and Stade Abidjan of Ivory Coast.
The Pirates’ squad is packed with talent, and the South African giants are known for their tactical flexibility and resilience.
Facing a team like Al Ahly offers them an opportunity to showcase their potential and perhaps upset the tournament favorites.
With their passionate fanbase behind them, Orlando Pirates aim to advance beyond the group stages and make a deep run in CAF Champions League competition.
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Group C: The Battle for Supremacy
Group C is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in this year’s CAF Champions League. Alongside Al Ahly and Orlando Pirates, Chabab Belouizdad and Stade Abidjan bring their own histories and ambitions to the group.
- Chabab Belouizdad (Algeria): The Algerian club has become a regular fixture in the Champions League, making their fifth straight group-stage appearance. Known for their disciplined approach and experienced squad, Belouizdad will be aiming to progress beyond the group stages and pose a significant challenge to the more established giants.
- Stade Abidjan (Ivory Coast): A team with a storied past, Stade Abidjan is making a return to the competition after a remarkable 54-year absence. As the 1966 champions, they have a rich legacy in African football. The Ivorian side will look to revive their glory days and prove that they are still a force to be reckoned with in CAF Champions League competitions.
The intensity in Group C promises to provide fans with a showcase of high-caliber football, as each team brings its unique strengths and tactical strategies to the table.
Other Exciting Matchups in the CAF Champions League Draw
While Group C undoubtedly grabs the headlines, other groups in the 2024/25 CAF Champions League draw offer exciting encounters as well:
- Group A: TP Mazembe (DR Congo), Young Africans (Tanzania), Al Hilal (Sudan), and Mouloudia Alger (Algeria) make up this group. TP Mazembe, a five-time champion, faces tough competition, especially from the Tanzanian side, Young Africans, who reached the quarterfinals last season.
- Group B: This group features Mamelodi Sundowns (South Africa), Raja Casablanca (Morocco), FAR Rabat (Morocco), and Maniema Union (DR Congo). Sundowns, semifinalists in the last two editions, have bolstered their attack with the signing of South African international Iqraam Rayners. They will be keen to clinch their second title since defeating Zamalek in 2016.
- Group D: Esperance (Tunisia), Pyramids (Egypt), Sagrada Esperanca (Angola), and Djoliba (Mali) complete this group. Tunisian giants Esperance, with their illustrious history in the competition, will face off against an ambitious Pyramids side eager to prove themselves on the African stage.
Key Dates and Matchdays
CAF has scheduled the group-stage matches on the following dates:
- Matchday 1: November 26-27
- Matchday 2: December 6-7
- Matchday 3: December 13-14
- Matchday 4: January 3-4, 2025
- Matchday 5: January 10-11, 2025
- Matchday 6: January 17-18, 2025
The group winners and runners-up will advance to the quarterfinals, making each fixture crucial as teams fight for CAF Champions League qualification.
Can Al Ahly Make History Once Again?
Al Ahly’s pursuit of a third consecutive CAF Champions League title is the central storyline of this season’s competition. With their solid defense, experienced coaching staff, and a squad filled with star power, they remain the favorites.
However, the competitive nature of Group C and the quality of their opponents mean that Ahly cannot afford to be complacent.
Orlando Pirates, buoyed by their strong squad and tactical adaptability, aim to upset the odds and challenge Ahly for the top spot in the group. Meanwhile, Chabab Belouizdad and Stade Abidjan have their own ambitions, ensuring that Group C will be a battle of strategy, skill, and determination.
