The battle for African club football’s ultimate prize is reaching fever pitch as the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League enters the knockout stage. Eight clubs—each with a rich history, formidable squads, and passionate fanbases—are now just three rounds away from continental supremacy.
With former champions, dark horses, and rising contenders all in the mix, the quarter-finals promise thrilling drama, fierce rivalries, and high-stakes showdowns that will keep the continent on the edge of its seat.
Road to the Knockouts: Battle-Tested & Ready for War
The group stage was a brutal test of endurance, skill, and resilience, with only the strongest surviving the cut-throat competition. Now, the stakes are even higher.
The first leg kicks off on Tuesday, April 1, while the decisive return fixtures follow on April 8 and 9. Each club knows that one mistake, one moment of brilliance, or one stroke of luck could determine their fate.
The quarter-finalists boast a blend of historic giants and ambitious challengers, all with their eyes set on the biggest prize in African club football.
Time can't pass fast enough.
The #TotalEnergiesCAFCL quarterfinals. In. 24. Hours! ⏳ pic.twitter.com/Qjm5q1Bhri
— TotalEnergies CAFCL & CAFCC 🏆 (@CAFCLCC) March 31, 2025Quarter-Final Showdowns: Heavyweights, Underdogs & Revenge Missions
Mamelodi Sundowns (RSA) vs. Espérance Sportive de Tunis (TUN) – 13h00 GMT
A true clash of titans, as 2016 champions Sundowns take on four-time winners Espérance. The Brazilians have reached this stage nine times in the last 10 seasons, proving their consistency. But their group stage goal-scoring woes (just five goals in six matches) will be a concern against an Espérance side that finished top of their pool and boasts attacking firepower in Elias Mokwana and Achref Jabri.
Can the South African kings shake off their goal drought, or will Espérance’s relentless pursuit of a fifth CAF crown push them through?
Pyramids FC (EGY) vs. AS FAR (MAR) – 19h00 GMT
Two teams with something to prove—Pyramids FC are making their knockout stage debut, while AS FAR are in the quarters for the first time since 1988.
Moroccan giants AS FAR, led by new Portuguese coach Alexandre Santos, will rely on their unbeaten group stage form to stifle a Pyramids attack that scored a joint-high 14 goals in the pool phase.
Pyramids are hungry to establish themselves among Africa’s elite, but will their inexperience on this stage cost them against a battle-hardened AS FAR?
Al Ahly (EGY) vs. Al Hilal (SDN) – 19h00 GMT
The defending 12-time champions Al Ahly remain the ultimate force in African football. Four CAF titles in the last five years, and now, they are on the brink of making history as the first team to win three straight CAF Champions League trophies.
However, Al Hilal are no pushovers. Despite being forced to play home games in Mauritania due to the ongoing crisis in Sudan, they stunned many by topping their group. Their rock-solid defense (except for one heavy 4-0 defeat) could frustrate an Al Ahly side desperate to flex their dominance.
Will the Egyptian giants steamroll their way to yet another title, or can Al Hilal pull off a CAF Champions League shocker?
MC Alger (ALG) vs. Orlando Pirates (RSA) – 19h00 GMT
A historic club vs. a resurgent force—this is a battle steeped in tradition. MC Alger, 1976 champions, have relied on defensive solidity to reach this stage, conceding just two goals in the group phase.
But they now face an Orlando Pirates side brimming with confidence. Under Spanish coach Jose Riveiro, the Buccaneers have been sensational, topping their group unbeaten with 14 points—the best record of any team.
Their dramatic 2-1 away win at Al Ahly in the last group game proved they fear no one. Can the South Africans rekindle the spirit of 1995 and push closer to a second CAF Champions League title?
Who Faces Who Next? Semi-Final Path Confirmed
The road to the final is already mapped out, ensuring that the quarter-final victors know exactly who stands between them and a place in the grand finale:
- SF 1: Winner of Mamelodi Sundowns vs. Espérance will face the winner of Al Ahly vs. Al Hilal
- SF 2: Winner of MC Alger vs. Orlando Pirates will take on the winner of Pyramids FC vs. AS FAR
This means a potential Al Ahly vs. Sundowns semi-final showdown could be on the cards, while Orlando Pirates and AS FAR could set up an electrifying last-four clash.
Where to Watch: Global Coverage & Exclusive Content
The TotalEnergies CAF Champions League quarter-finals will be broadcast LIVE across CAF’s official broadcast partners. Fans can also enjoy behind-the-scenes coverage, highlights, and exclusive interviews on CAF’s digital platforms.
With Africa’s best clubs battling for glory, the journey to the final is guaranteed to deliver unforgettable drama, spectacular goals, and legendary moments. Who will rise? Who will fall? The road to the CAF Champions League title starts NOW!
