Some clubs will return home with small advantages, while well-known teams must recover from losses in the first leg in front of their fans. After a weekend full of surprises and close games, these matches feel like knockout rounds: stay calm, manage the game, and you could reach the group stage in November.

Chiefs under pressure, Kabuscorp sensing an upset

Kaizer Chiefs lost 1–0 in the first leg and need to win against Kabuscorp from Angola, who will try to counterattack in South Africa. Mighty Wanderers have a 1–0 lead over Jwaneng Galaxy from Botswana. If Wanderers score early, it will change the game; otherwise, expect strong pressure from the hosts.

Otohô’s 2–1 victory over Primeiro de Agosto in Angola was one of the standout results from the first leg. They need to stay organized and strong in the return match to advance.

Kotoko’s thrilling match continues in Ilorin

Few first legs were as exciting as the 4–3 game in Accra, where Kotoko narrowly won. Expect quick action from the start as Kotoko relies on James Ablorh’s runs during counterattacks, while Kwara needs to strengthen their defense to avoid being exposed again.

Kassi Théodore scored a neat goal in Cameroon, giving San Pedro a 1–0 advantage with an important away goal. Aigle Royal was unable to score in Yaoundé and must attack in Côte d’Ivoire, which could benefit San Pedro’s ability to use wide players.

Hafia and Stade Tunisien in control

Hafia has a strong lead after winning 3–0 against Bhantal in Sierra Leone. The Guinean team will play carefully at home. Stade Tunisien also has a 2–0 lead and controlled the midfield in the first leg. Though SNIM from Mauritania will have little to lose when they face Stade Tunisien, they need to be cautious.

East African derby remains tight

The thrilling 2–2 draw in Kampala between NEC from Uganda and Nairobi United sets up an exciting rematch. The Ugandan team plays aggressively and will try to capitalize on this in the return match.

FC Libreville’s 2–0 win over Zesco United came from a strong start and solid defense. The Zambians need to push the pace, but they also must be careful to defend against quick counterattacks. An early goal for Zesco could change the game’s atmosphere.

These second leg matches are scheduled from September 26 to 28. The aggregate winners will advance to the Second Preliminary Round on October 17-19 and 24-26, edging closer to the group stage on November 21.