Remo Stars seek redemption as TotalEnergies CAF Champions League kicks off

The 2024/25 TotalEnergies CAF Champions League is set to roar into action this weekend with the preliminary rounds, as some of Africa's most ambitious clubs prepare to battle for continental supremacy. 

While the group stage may still be weeks away, the intensity of the competition is already palpable as 54 clubs are in action in the first-leg of the 27 matches of the first preliminary round that will offer a glimpse of what’s to come in the race for continental supremacy.

With improved squads, renewed ambitions, and the dreams of continental glory, these early matches set the stage for what promises to be an exhilarating season.

One of the key fixtures in this round features Nigeria's Remo Stars who face a stern test against Moroccan powerhouse AS FAR.

The fixture carries extra weight for the Ikenne-based club, who are seeking redemption after their elimination by AS FAR in the 2021/22 TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup.

Remo Stars have bolstered their squad with new signings, including former Giwa FC striker Ibrahim Shuaibu and Benin midfielder Serge Obasa, as they aim to break into the group stage for the first time.

Head coach Daniel Ogunmodede is cautiously optimistic, saying, "We learn from our experiences, and I believe we will do better this time around. It's our third time on the continent, and we're more experienced now."

Fellow Nigerian side Rangers International of Enugu are set to end their four-year continental hiatus as they take on U.S Zilimadjou of Comoros.

Team captain Ugwueze Chinemerem exudes confidence, stating, "We respect our opponents, but we are fully prepared to secure a good result."

In Tanzania, Young Africans (Yanga SC) are gearing up to face Burundi's Vital'O FC. They have also bolstered their squad, signaling their intent to make a deeper run in the competition.

Yanga President Hersi Said has set the bar high, stating, "Last season, our target was the group stage, and we managed to reach the quarter-finals. This time, we aim to surpass that achievement."

In another intriguing East African clash, Djibouti's Arta Solar 7 FC will face Somalia's Dekedaha SC.

The first leg of these crucial matches will unfold between August 16 and 18, with the return fixtures scheduled for a week later from August 23 to 25.

Fans are invited to also engage in the live discussions across CAF Digital platforms using #TotalEnergiesCAFCL & #TotalEnergiesCAFCC.

TotalEnergies CAF Champions League Fixtures – CLICK HERE 

For more information on CAF Interclub Competitions, visit www.cafonline.com