Cafcl:colombe Head To Algeria With Hopes Alive After Yaound Stalemate

Coach Richard Towa and his Colombe delegation left Cameroon via the Nsimalen International Airport on Thursday evening as they hope to arrive early and get the better of their hosts in the second leg game.

The first leg in Yaound ended 1-1, leaving the contest finely balanced as both sides chase a place in the lucrative group stage of Africas premier club competition.

Colombe made an encouraging start in the first leg at the Amadou Ahidjo Stadium, taking the lead through Ino Loembas composed finish midway into the first half. However, their hopes of a first-leg advantage were dashed when Abdelhak Debbari struck an equaliser for the visitors late on, handing MC Alger a vital away goal.

It was a spirited showing from Richard Towas men, who demonstrated good attacking intent and discipline, but also learned hard lessons about game management at this level.

MC Alger come into the tie under the guidance of South African coach Rulani Mokwena , who has yet to taste defeat since taking charge earlier this year. The Algerian champions are unbeaten in all competitions this season a run spanning 18 matches and have not lost at home in continental football for over two years.

Their blend of technical control and tactical precision has made them one of the most feared teams in North Africa. Playmaker Mohamed Belkheir , veteran leader Abderrahmane Hachoud , and forward Debbari are expected to spearhead their charge.

For Colombe du Dja , this is a defining moment in their young continental journey. Making their CAF Champions League debut, the Cameroonian side has already captured attention with their resilience and tactical evolution under Towa.

Captain Randy Ntube will marshal the defence alongside Cedric Djomo , while Hamza and Priso Eyango provide width and energy in transition. The experienced Leandre Tawamba , back in Cameroon football after years abroad, brings presence and leadership up front. In midfield, Junior Mbeleck will be tasked with breaking play and linking transitions with Ino Loemba , whose goal in the first leg showcased his instinct in tight spaces.

To stand a chance in Algiers, Colombe must combine compact defending with sharp counter-attacks an approach Towas side has worked on during the week.

With the first leg ending 1-1, MC Alger hold a slight advantage through the away-goal rule. A goalless draw or any home victory will take them through to the group stage. Colombe , meanwhile, need either a win or a scoring draw beyond 1-1 to advance.

The winner of this tie will join Africas elite in the group phase a stage that brings prestige, exposure, and significant financial reward.

Kick-off: Sunday, 26 October 2025 20:00 local time 19:00 GMT Venue: 5 July 1962 Stadium, Algiers