Sudanese duo in search of maiden wins

Sudanese giants, El Hilal and El Merreikh are hoping for their first ever wins of the group phase of the Total CAF Champions League during the Day Four matches.

The Sudanese economic capital of Omdurman will be the centre of attraction with Hilal hosting former winners, Etoile du Sahel of Tunisia on Wednesday, whilst Merreikh battles Mozambican debutants, Ferroviario da Beira 24-hous later, both in Group A.

Victory for either side will boost their standings in Group A and further enhance their chances as long as a place at the knockout stage is concerned.

Hilal sit third on the standings with three points from three draws, and are four points shy of leaders, Etoile. The “Blue Waves” snatched a 1-1 draw in the reverse against Etoile in Sousse two weeks ago, and are poised to sink “Les Diables Rouges” for their first win at this stage.

On the other hand, Merreikh occupy the bottom of the log after bagging just a point from three matches. Merreikh will be hoping to avenge for the painful 1-0 loss suffered at the hands of Ferroviario in Beira a fortnight ago to boost their fortunes.

“We have not given up. We are still in contention, but we have to win our all remaining three games," said Merreikh coach, Diego Garzito.

In the second-tier Total CAF Confederation Cup, debutants Hilal Obeid will come up against Egyptian side, Smouha in their Group C Day Four clash in Obeid on Tuesday.

“We want to win, because that will make us qualify to the next stage. We cannot afford another defeat against Smouha. We want to have our destinies in our hands.

“We will miss three key players, but we have good substitutes who can fit the gap. We expect a tough test from Smouha, who are noted for playing better away from home,” said Hilal Obeid coach Ibrahim Hussein.

The reverse fixture in Alexandria a fortnight ago ended one-all.

Meanwhile, leaders Zesco travels to Calulo to face Angolan side Recreativo do Libolo also on Tuesday.