Leopards shock Yanga as Kaburscop floor Chiefs in Confederation Cup shake-up
A dramatic Saturday in the TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup delivered jarring upsets and emphatic statements. Kaizer Chiefs and Young Africans were beaten, Hafia and Stade Tunisien made light work of their assignments, and a see-saw East African derby in Kampala kept the tie alive.
The competition’s reputation for jeopardy and surprise remains intact – and this first instalment suggests the journey to the group stage will be anything but predictable.
FC 105 seize control in Libreville
Gabon’s FC 105 made home advantage count with a measured 2–0 win over Zambia’s Zesco United. A fast start set the tone and, once in front, the hosts paired tidy finishing with disciplined defending to protect their cushion. It was a performance that signalled intent and put Zesco under pressure for the return leg.
Royal Leopards stun Young Africans of Namibia
Royal Leopards of Eswatini produced the result of the day, winning 2–0 away to Young Africans in Namibia. Their plan was clear and expertly executed: compact without the ball, ruthless in transition. Two goals second-half goals scored by Simanga Masangane and Thembisa Shabangu undid the home side and underlined the steady rise of Eswatini football.
Kaburscop edge Chiefs in Gaborone
Backed by a buoyant home crowd, Kaburscop claimed a statement 1–0 victory over South Africa’s Kaizer Chiefs. The hosts weathered prolonged pressure, then struck decisively in the final quarter-hour with Edo Bokota finding the net. The result reflects a growing competitiveness among clubs in the region, who are increasingly unafraid of heavyweight reputations.
Thriller in Kampala ends level
National Enterprise Corporation (Uganda) and Nairobi United (Kenya) delivered a gripping 2–2 draw in Kampala. The derby had tempo and needle, with the visitors twice hauling themselves back after falling behind. With all still to play for, the return match promises similar drama.
Singida Black Stars strike in Kigali
In Rwanda, Singida Black Stars secured a valuable 1–0 away win over Rayon Sports. The Tanzanian side profited from a rare lapse in the home defence and then managed the game with composure, taking a narrow yet significant lead back home.
Hafia cruise past Bhantal
Three-time African champions Hafia reminded the continent of their pedigree, dismantling Bhantal 3–0 on the road. Control, clarity and clean finishing defined the display, and the Guineans look well placed to finish the job next time out.
Stade Tunisien do the necessary
Stade Tunisien handled their assignment with authority, defeating Mauritania’s SNIM 2–0 in Tunis. Superior technique and midfield control told after the interval, giving the Bardo club a healthy platform and the confidence to manage the tie from the front.