Kaizer Chiefs legend Siphiwe Tshabalala has been left impressed by the strides of African football ahead of the 2024/24 CAF inter-club competitions.
Tshabalala was part of the Confederation Cup draw on Monday afternoon at the Confederation of African Football (CAF) headquarters in Cairo, Egypt.
With Sekhukhune United eliminated, Stellenbosch is the only representative in the competition for South Africa and were drawn in Group C.
Reigning champions Zamalek SC are the favourites again for the title, while record three-time champions CS Sfaxien are also amongst those expected to make a real challenge under the guidance of Alexandre Santos, previously with Petro de Luanda.
“Definitely there’s growth [in African football] teams have stepped up, there’s value in CAF competitions and one has to give credit to CAF for the investment they have put into the competition which enables teams to strengthen their teams,” he said.
“It’s also allowed strong players to [remain at teams], there’s value in CAF. We have seen the success of the past edition of AFCON and the list of players in Africa representing their national teams.
“They are playing domestic football and dominating in CAF competitions. So it’s a great tournament that yields great success for national teams, this year’s edition promises to be exciting with five former champions participating, I’m looking forward to a great tournament.”
The group stage kicks off on 28 November and ends on 19 January before the knockout stages commence in March 2025.
