Zambian football legend and 2012 AFCON winner Christopher Katongo has tipped Power Dynamos to make a strong impression in the CAF Champions League group stage, despite being drawn in what he described as “one of the most competitive groups in years.”
Power Dynamos will face defending champions Pyramids FC of Egypt, Moroccan giants RS Berkane, and Nigeria’s Rivers United in Group A — a lineup Katongo says presents both a challenge and a rare opportunity for Zambian football to reassert its strength on the continental stage.
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“This is a proper Champions League group,” Katongo told local media. “All four clubs are strong — Berkane and Pyramids have huge experience, and Rivers United are a team growing fast in African football. But Power Dynamos have what it takes to compete if they stay disciplined and play with belief.”
The former Chipolopolo captain, who scored key goals during Zambia’s historic AFCON triumph in 2012, urged the Zambian champions to approach every match with courage and tactical awareness, noting that away games will be crucial to their qualification hopes.
“In these tournaments, your mentality on the road defines your campaign,” he explained. “If Power Dynamos can get points away from home and remain solid in Ndola, they’ll give themselves a good chance to go through. The margins are always small at this level.”
Katongo also pointed out that while Rivers United are not as experienced as their North African counterparts, they possess quality and energy that make them dangerous opponents.
“People shouldn’t underestimate Rivers United,” he warned. “They’ve got young players and a coach like Finidi George who understands African football. But this is Power Dynamos’ chance to show Zambia still belongs among Africa’s elite.”
The CAF Champions League group stage is expected to kick off in December, with Group A fixtures among the most anticipated on the continent.
