Zambian champions Power Dynamos will know their opponents for the CAF Champions League group stage when the draw is conducted on November 3 in Johannesburg, South Africa.
The Kitwe giants, who are making a return to the group stage for the first time in several years, have impressed on the continent so far — showing resilience and attacking flair under coach Osward Mutapa. Their progression has rekindled memories of Zambia’s rich continental football history.
Adding to the national pride, former Chipolopolo captain Chris Katongo will conduct the draw alongside Cameroon legend Alex Song, representing Southern Africa on the grand stage.
The Draw Pots
Power Dynamos will be in Pot 4, meaning they will face one team each from the other three pots — all featuring some of Africa’s most powerful clubs.
Pot 1: Al Ahly 🇪🇬, Mamelodi Sundowns 🇿🇦, ES Tunis 🇹🇳, RS Berkane 🇲🇦
Pot 2: Simba 🇹🇿, Pyramids 🇪🇬, Al Hilal 🇸🇩, Yanga 🇹🇿
Pot 3: Petro Luanda 🇦🇴, AS FAR 🇲🇦, MC Alger 🇩🇿, Rivers United 🇳🇬
Pot 4: JS Kabylie 🇩🇿, Stade Malien 🇲🇱, St Eloi Lupopo 🇨🇩, Power Dynamos 🇿🇲
Possible Group Scenarios for Power Dynamos
🟢 Economical ‘Cosafa’ Group:
Mamelodi Sundowns, Simba, Petro Luanda, Power Dynamos
A sponsor’s dream group — regional, vibrant, and cost-effective.
All four clubs hail from the Southern and Eastern Africa region, making travel manageable and the matches commercially appealing.
Simba are arguably weaker than their fierce rivals Yanga, and Power Dynamos will back themselves to collect vital points at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium against Simba, Petro Luanda, and even Sundowns in front of their passionate Kitwe faithful.
⚖️ Fair Group:
Esperance, Al Hilal, Rivers United, Power Dynamos
A balanced and competitive draw that offers a genuine chance for Power Dynamos to compete.
While they would still be viewed as underdogs, the Zambian champions could target home wins and possibly sneak into the knockout stages. It’s the kind of group that would test their tactical depth without being overwhelming.
🔴 Worst-Case Scenario:
Al Ahly, Pyramids, MC Alger, Power Dynamos
Every Zambian club’s nightmare — the North African gauntlet.
Trips to Cairo and Algiers are not only expensive but notoriously tough for visiting sides.
With Pyramids FC entering as the defending champions, this would be the most demanding possible group. Historically, Zambian teams have struggled against North African opposition due to their experience, organisation, and intimidating atmospheres.
Final Word
Whether they land in a favourable “Cosafa” group or face the continent’s toughest giants, Power Dynamos have already shown that they belong among Africa’s best.
Their return to the group stage symbolizes a resurgence of Zambian football on the continental scene — a journey built on belief, structure, and the Copperbelt’s enduring football spirit.
All eyes will now turn to Johannesburg on November 3, where the dream — or the challenge — begins.
