North African clubs maintained their dominance in the fifth round of the CAF Champions League and Confederation Cup, with potential for up to 12 teams from the region to reach the quarterfinals. Surprising results from Zambian sides Power Dynamos and ZESCO disrupted the trend, while teams from Tanzania, Democratic Republic of Congo, and Sudan showed promise. The outcomes set up an intriguing final round next weekend.
The fifth round of the African club competitions delivered a mix of expected dominance and unexpected upsets, highlighting the growing influence of North African football. Clubs from Morocco, Algeria, Egypt, and Tunisia nearly swept the results, bolstered by investments in training, academies, and infrastructure linked to Europe and Gulf states. Author Falk expressed surprise at the developments, stating, "I must admit that I am both surprised and amazed by the results that have come." Despite hopes for progress from powerhouses like South Africa, Nigeria, Ivory Coast, and Ghana, only South African teams showed marginal advancement, though Orlando Pirates exited early and Stellenbosch struggled post-coach change.
Zambia's interventions stood out as the round's highlights. Power Dynamos secured a 2-0 victory over Morocco's RS Berkane, with captain Prince Mumba scoring the second goal via a precise volley from outside the box. This leveled points with Berkane, though Dynamos face a tough away match against Pyramids next. ZESCO United also triumphed 1-0 against Egypt's Zamalek, thanks to Hiver's penalty goal, followed by a comical scuffle with the opposing goalkeeper.
Other notable moments included Wydad Casablanca's late 1-0 win over Nairobi United, sealed by Wissam Ben Yedder's 90th-minute strike. Congo's Otohô d'Oyo benefited from new signing Pomi Sagesse Exaucé Nzaou, who netted twice recently, including against Stellenbosch. South Africa's Kaizer Chiefs, nicknamed Amakhosi, defeated Al Masry to top their group, while Stade Malien from Mali beat Esperance to qualify. St Eloi Lupopo held Mamelodi Sundowns to a 1-1 draw at home, with the stadium erupting after their counterattack goal.
Positive signs emerged beyond North Africa. Tanzania's four teams in the group stage mark progress, with Azam and Yanga still in contention despite Simba SC's elimination. DRC and Congo clubs like Maniema Union, who upset Wydad, and Otohô d'Oyo vie for group wins. Sudan's Al Hilal impressed by earning points against stronger sides, teetering on playoff qualification.
Qualified teams include Pyramids FC, Al Ahly, and Stade Malien for the Champions League, and USM Alger, Olympique Safi, CR Belouizdad, and Otohô d'Oyo for the Confederation Cup. All remains open ahead of the decisive sixth round.
