The stage is set for a major continental test as CS sfaxien arrive in Nigeria ahead of their CAF Confederation Cup first leg clash with Shooting stars at the MKO Abiola Stadium in Abeokuta on Saturday, September 5.
The Tunisian giants touched down in Nigeria early Wednesday after departing Tunis on Tuesday, bringing with them the experience and pedigree of one of North Africa’s most established clubs.
Popularly known as “Juventus Al Arab”, CS sfaxien have built a strong reputation in African football and will provide a significant test for the Oluyole Warriors, who are returning to continental action after beginning their 2026/27 NPFL campaign with a 2-1 victory over Inter Lagos.
CS SFAXIEN have arrived in Nigeria ahead of their CAF Confederation Cup clash with Shooting stars as the Oluyole Warriors prepare for a major continental test in Abeokuta. Photocredit: CupidFC/X
CS sfaxien possess a squad that blends experience, international pedigree and youthful talent.
Experienced goalkeeper Aymen Dahmen, a Tunisia international, offers leadership and stability behind a defence that includes Ali Maaloul, Hamza Mathlouthi, Kevin Mondeko and young defender Hichem Baccar.
In midfield, Firas Sekkouhi, Ammar Taifour, Travis Mutyaba and Mohamed Absi provide different qualities, including ball retention, creativity and attacking support.
Shooting stars will also need to keep a close eye on Youssef Becha, Hazem Haj Hassen and Josna Epifani Loulendo, who provide pace, movement and attacking threat.
READMORE:Argentina to honour Messi as AFA immortalises historic England victory
CS sfaxien have made an encouraging start to the new Tunisian season, recording one victory and one draw from their opening two league matches.
They began with a 1-1 away draw against Stade Tunisien before beating Zarzis 2-1 at home.
Shooting stars have also enjoyed a positive start. The Oluyole Warriors have won four of their last five matches, with their latest success coming against Inter Lagos on the opening weekend of the NPFL season.
That result provides Salisu Yusuf’s side with momentum, although the demands of continental football will require a different level of concentration and tactical discipline.
The first 20 minutes could be crucial Shooting stars cannot afford a slow start against opponents with CS sfaxien’s experience.
The Oluyole Warriors will need to remain compact and disciplined during the opening stages, avoiding the defensive mistakes that could allow the visitors to gain an early advantage.
At the same time, the home side must resist becoming overly cautious. Controlling the midfield, making use of possession and taking their opportunities could prove decisive in a first leg where every advantage matters.
Shooting stars COULD USE Home advantage
CS SFAXIEN have arrived in Nigeria ahead of their CAF Confederation Cup clash with SHOOTING STARS as the Oluyole Warriors prepare for a major continental test in Abeokuta.
Playing at the MKO Abiola Stadium in Abeokuta gives Shooting stars an opportunity to put the Tunisian visitors under pressure from the opening whistle.
The support from the stands could become an important factor, particularly if the Oluyole Warriors can reproduce the determination and fighting spirit that helped them overcome Inter Lagos.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN ATHLETIC NG WHATSAPP CHANNEL NOW!
But while CS sfaxien bring considerable continental experience, Shooting stars have momentum and the advantage of playing the first leg on home soil.
A strong performance and positive result would give the Nigerian side an important foundation before the return fixture in Sfax on September 13.
Pingback: “We will come out and push till the end” – Ezeaku fires up Rangers for AS Sobemap - The Athletic NG