The 2025–26 CAF Champions League group stage begins this weekend, with Mamelodi Sundowns headlining the round as they host DR Congo side Saint-Éloi Lupopo at Loftus Versfeld.
With Betway valuing the PSL champions at 1.10 to win, Saturday’s clash stands out as one of the most one-sided fixtures on paper.
Sundowns look to set the tone in Group C
Mamelodi Sundowns (1.10) vs Saint-Éloi Lupopo (17.00), Draw (7.50)
Sundowns enter the new campaign as one of the tournament favourites after reaching last season’s CAF Champions League final, where they finished runners-up to Pyramids FC. Under Miguel Cardoso, who has not lost a CAF Champions League home match since his appointment in December 2024, Sundowns have retained their trademark control, structure and depth.
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Domestically, Sundowns remain at the summit of the PSL with only one defeat across 12 rounds. Their squad continuity is a major advantage. Senior players such as Teboho Mokoena, Ronwen Williams and Peter Shalulile have been central to their continental consistency, while the addition of experienced attackers has strengthened rotation options for the group stage.
Sundowns are also unbeaten at Loftus Versfeld in CAF Champions League football since 2023, a run that reinforces their heavy-favourites tag.
Lupopo arrive with confidence after eliminating Pirates
Saint-Éloi Lupopo travel to Pretoria having produced one of the biggest upsets of the qualifiers, knocking out South African giants Orlando Pirates on penalties after overturning a three-goal first-leg deficit. That comeback has drawn attention to a squad built on physicality, direct transitions and defensive numbers behind the ball.
Lupopo’s domestic form has also been impressive, with six-time league winners yet to lose domestically this season. They sit in second place in the 2025–26 standings, with three wins and two draws from their first five league matches. Their main threat comes from quick wide play and set pieces, areas Sundowns have generally controlled well this season.
Elsewhere in the CAF Champions League
While Cardoso’s side draws the spotlight, several key matches open the group stage:
Al Hilal vs MC Alger – a clash between two of North Africa’s most disciplined defensive units.
Young Africans vs AS FAR – Yanga searching for a deeper run after last season’s early exit (CAF 2024–25 records).
Al Ahly vs JS Kabylie – the record champions begin at home with strong expectation, boosted by consistent form in the Egyptian Premier League.
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ES Tunis vs Stade Malien – Esperance aiming to return to knockout contention.
Pyramids FC vs Rivers United – last season’s champions start their title defence in Cairo.
RSB Berkane vs Power Dynamos – Berkane remain one of the best-balanced sides in continental football.
Simba vs Petro de Luanda – two attack-minded clubs who regularly reach the latter stages.
The outlook
For Sundowns, Saturday is an opportunity to take early control of Group C and reassert their status as one of Africa’s elite. With home advantage, form and depth all swinging heavily in their favour, anything less than three points would be a major shock.
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