CAF Champions League: Pyramids neutralized in Berkane, sensational Lupopo

A tactical clash of the titans in Berkane
The most anticipated match was between RS Berkane, recent winner of the CAF Cup, and Pyramids FC, holders of the Champions League title. In an electric atmosphere, the two favorites of Group A finally neutralized each other (0-0). This duel of technicians mainly highlighted the defensive strength of the two formations, unable to find the fault despite some chills in the repair surfaces. This division of points suits the two leaders, especially since in the other meeting of the group, Power Dynamos and Rivers United also separated on a draw, leaving the top of the standings unchanged.

Al Ahly and l'Espérance hold their rank
In Group B, the 'Club of the Century' did not tremble. In front of his audience, Al Ahly dictated his pace against the Young Africans of Tanzania. With a clear 2-0 victory, the Egyptians are settling in alone at the controls, taking advantage of the gap between JS Kabylie and AS FAR Rabat who could not settle (0-0) in a closed Maghreb derby.

Espérance de Tunis followed a similar trajectory in Group D. Sang et Or ensured the essential by winning on the smallest of margins (1-0) against Simba SC, Tanzanians who are going through a deep crisis with three defeats in as many games. The surprise of this group comes from Bamako:Stade Malien impressed by bringing down Petro Luanda (2-0), redistributing the cards for the second qualifying place.


Earthquake in Lubumbashi and doubts in Pretoria
The real show, however, took place in Group C, now considered as the most undecided of this edition. Mamelodi Sundowns, South African giants and natural contenders for the title, have once again disappointed. Held up at home by the Sudanese of Al Hilal (2-2), the Brazilians confirm their current difficulties, including an unusual defensive fragility.

But the thunderclap came from the Democratic Republic of Congo where FC Saint-Eloi Lupopo capsized their fans by winning 1-0 against MC Algiers. This historic victory against the doyen of Algerian clubs totally revives the Cheminots in the quarter-final race. This hard-fought success proves that Lupopo has the shoulders to shake up the continental hierarchy this season.

The consequences on the ranking
At the halfway point of this group stage, the landscape is more clearly defined. In Groups A and B, Pyramids, Berkane, and Al Ahly seem to already have one foot on the next turn. On the other hand, the tension rises a notch in Group C where Lupopo is now close to the leading duo composed of the Sundowns and Al Hilal. The next day, which will mark the start of return matches, will already be decisive for the survival of several executives from the continent.

The results of the 3rd day
Group A
RS Berkane 0-0 Pyramids

Power Dynamos 0-0 Rivers United

Group B
Al Ahly 2-0 Young Africans

JS Kabylie 0-0 AS FAR Rabat

Group C
Mamelodi Sundowns 2-2 Al Hilal

Saint-Eloi Lupopo 1-0 MC Alger

Group D
Espérance Tunis 1-0 Simba

Malian Stadium 2-0 Petro Luanda