Defending champions Al Ahly launched their quest for a third consecutive TotalEnergies CAF Champions League title with a resounding 4-2 victory over Côte d’Ivoire’s Stade d’Abidjan in Cairo on Tuesday.
The record title holders from Egypt dominated the first half, racing to a 3-1 lead, with Mahmoud Kahraba netting twice and Mohamed Magdi Kafsha adding another.
Stade d’Abidjan managed a response through Kassoum Koné but was ultimately overrun by Al Ahly’s firepower.
A second-half strike by Kahraba secured the points despite a late goal from Roger Assalé for the visitors.
Pyramids FC Shine in Group D
Elsewhere, Egypt’s Pyramids FC lit up the 30 June Air Defence Stadium in Cairo with a scintillating 5-1 dismantling of Angola’s Sagrada Esperança.
Ibrahim Adel was the star, contributing two goals, including a stunning opener in the 17th minute.
Fiston Mayele, Mohamed Hamdy, and Ahmed Atef also found the net, while Sagrada’s consolation came late via Cachí.
The dominant display underscores Pyramids’ ambitions to make a deep run in only their second group-stage campaign.
Goalless Stalemate in Pretoria
In Group B, Mamelodi Sundowns of South Africa were held to a 0-0 draw by DR Congo debutants Maniema Union at Loftus Versfeld Stadium.
Despite dominating possession, the home side failed to convert several chances, including Lucas Ribeiro Costa’s strike against the crossbar.
Maniema’s resilient defence earned them a valuable point in their first group-stage appearance.
The action continues with Group B’s marquee Moroccan derby between Raja Casablanca and FAR Rabat, while CR Belouizdad host Orlando Pirates in Group C.
