Kimoto sets quarter-final target as AS Maniema embrace heavyweight Group B test

AS Maniema Union coach Papy Kimoto has set a clear benchmark for his side after the TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup group-stage draw—reach the quarter-finals.

He says last season’s near miss has hardened the Congolese club for another continental tilt and believes a short, focused preparation window can sharpen their edge.

Kimoto also stressed deep respect for every opponent in a balanced Group B and underlined that Maniema want to start fast at home before tackling long away trips in Morocco, Tanzania and Kenya.

Wydad Casablanca headline Group B alongside AS Maniema Union, Azam FC and debutants Nairobi United.

Matchday 1 is scheduled for the weekend of 21–23 November, with two rounds before the AFCON break and fixtures resuming from 23–25 January.

The top two progress to the quarter-finals, with group participants guaranteed a minimum of USD 550,000 in prize money.

Reflecting on the target, Kimoto was unequivocal. “Our ambition is clear: to reach the quarter-finals,” he said.

“Last year, we narrowly missed qualification against Mamelodi Sundowns—an experience that taught us a lot and will help us approach this group phase better.”

The coach welcomed clarity on opponents and dates, saying readiness will define their campaign.

“We have two to three weeks to prepare well and be competitive. Now that we know the dates and the teams, we hope to start the competition at home,” he noted.

Group B brings pedigree and storylines in equal measure, something Kimoto both relishes and respects.

“I am really very happy—we now know our opponents for the group stage,” he said. “These are very talented teams, each of whom earned their place—just like us.”

Wydad, the three-time CAF Champions League winners, naturally command attention.

“We will face an African giant: Wydad Athletic Club of Casablanca, a team we respect deeply,” Kimoto added.

He also warned against underestimating the others.

“There will also be Azam, who, despite their first participation, are very well organised this year, and Nairobi, who have just eliminated Tunisian heavyweights Étoile du Sahel. These teams must be taken very seriously.”

Kimoto closed with a message to supporters about mindset and momentum. “We are motivated and ready to take on this challenge,” he said.

Group B fixtures (key dates)

• MD1 (21–23 Nov): Wydad AC vs Nairobi United; AS Maniema Union vs Azam FC

• MD2 (30 Nov): Azam FC vs Wydad AC; Nairobi United vs AS Maniema Union

• MD3 (25 Jan): Nairobi United vs Azam FC; Wydad AC vs AS Maniema Union

• MD4 (1 Feb): Azam FC vs Nairobi United; AS Maniema Union vs Wydad AC

• MD5 (8 Feb): Nairobi United vs Wydad AC; Azam FC vs AS Maniema Union

• MD6 (15 Feb): Wydad AC vs Azam FC; AS Maniema Union vs Nairobi United