Players to watch: Eight stars who could decide the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League quarter-finals
The 2025/26 TotalEnergies CAF Champions League quarter-finals promise a series of thrilling encounters as eight of Africa’s top clubs battle for a place in the semi-finals.
With the first-leg matches set to begin on Friday 13 March, the stakes could hardly be higher for the continent’s elite sides.
From Cairo to Tunis, Rabat to Pretoria, several standout performers have already played decisive roles in guiding their teams into the last eight.
As the competition enters its most decisive phase, individual brilliance could prove the difference between progress and elimination.
Among the players expected to influence the outcome of the quarter-final ties are established internationals, emerging talents and seasoned campaigners who have delivered important moments during the group stage.
Mahmoud “Trezeguet” Hassan – Al Ahly
Mahmoud Hassan Trezeguet has once again demonstrated his importance to Al Ahly as the Egyptian giants chase another continental title.
The 31-year-old winger currently leads the scoring charts in the competition with five goals and one assist, underlining his decisive influence in attack.
A player with vast international experience, Trezeguet has consistently delivered in big matches for both club and country.
His ability to arrive late in the box and convert chances could be crucial when Al Ahly face Espérance Sportive de Tunis in what is expected to be one of the standout ties of the quarter-finals.
Aboubacar Diakité – Espérance Sportive de Tunis
At just 19, Aboubacar Diakite has emerged as one of the most exciting young attackers in African club football.
The Malian forward has already scored three goals in the competition, showcasing his composure and instinct in front of goal.
Diakité’s pace and direct style of play have made him a constant threat to opposing defences.
Espérance will hope the youngster can rise to the occasion against Al Ahly and continue his impressive breakthrough campaign.
Nuno Santos – Mamelodi Sundowns
Portuguese playmaker Nuno Santos has been a key creative force for Mamelodi Sundowns this season.
With two goals and two assists, the 27-year-old has contributed significantly to the South African side’s journey to the quarter-finals.
Known for his vision and technical quality, Santos often dictates the tempo in midfield and provides the link between defence and attack.
Sundowns will rely heavily on his creativity when they face Stade Malien in their quarter-final clash.
Taddeus Nkeng – Stade Malien
Cameroon striker Taddeus Nkeng has been central to Stade Malien’s impressive Champions League campaign.
The 26-year-old forward has scored two goals during the group stage, helping the Bamako club reach the knockout phase for the first time in nearly three decades.
Nkeng’s career path has taken him through academies and clubs across Europe and Africa, shaping a versatile and intelligent striker.
His physical presence and clinical finishing could prove vital as Stade Malien attempt to extend their remarkable run against Sundowns.
Mouchcine Bouriga – AS FAR Rabat
Mouchcine Bouriga may have scored just one goal so far in the competition, but his overall contribution to AS FAR Rabat has been invaluable.
The Moroccan forward is known for his relentless movement and ability to disrupt defensive lines.
Against defending champions Pyramids FC, Bouriga’s pressing and link-up play could be key to unlocking opportunities for his side.
Ahmed Atef – Pyramids FC
At only 23, Ahmed Atef has become one of the attacking leaders for Pyramids FC.
The forward has already scored four goals in the Champions League this season, demonstrating his ability to perform under pressure.
Atef’s sharp finishing and intelligent movement inside the penalty area have helped the Egyptian club defend their title ambitions.
His goals could be decisive as Pyramids face AS FAR in a highly competitive tie.
Paul Bassène – RS Berkane
Senegalese forward Paul Bassene has been one of the driving forces behind RS Berkane’s progress to the knockout stages.
The 25-year-old has scored three goals in the tournament, playing a crucial role in the Moroccan club’s attacking play.
Bassène’s pace, direct running and finishing ability make him a constant threat on the counterattack.
Berkane will be counting on his attacking instincts when they face Sudan’s Al Hilal Omdurman.
Abdelraziq Omer – Al Hilal Omdurman
Sudanese international Abdelraziq Omer has been one of the most prolific forwards in this season’s competition.
The 32-year-old has scored four goals and provided one assist, making him the second-highest scorer in the tournament.
A seasoned striker with a reputation for delivering in decisive moments, Omer’s leadership and finishing ability could prove crucial for Al Hilal.
His battle with Berkane’s defence will be one of the key duels of the quarter-final round.
With the quarter-finals set to begin on 13 March, the performances of these players could ultimately determine which clubs move a step closer to lifting Africa’s most prestigious club trophy.