The match will be played at the Amahoro Stadium in Kigali, Rwanda, with kick-off scheduled for 19:00hrs. The venue has been selected as a neutral ground due to the ongoing security situation in Sudan, which has forced several Sudanese clubs to host their continental “home” matches outside the country.
Power Dynamos, known as the Aba Yellow, earned their place in Africa’s premier club competition by winning the Zambia Super League title last season. The Kitwe-based side produced an impressive campaign in the previous edition of the Champions League, reaching the group stage, and will be aiming to build on that progress this time around.
Al Merreikh, one of Sudan’s most successful and best-supported clubs, remain a formidable opponent despite the challenges of playing away from home. The Red Devils have a rich continental history and will look to use their experience to take a positive result into the second leg.
The first leg in Kigali represents a significant test for Power Dynamos. Playing on neutral territory removes the traditional home advantage that Al Merreikh would normally enjoy, potentially offering the Zambian side a more balanced contest. Coach and players will be focused on remaining compact defensively while looking to create opportunities on the counter.
The return leg is expected to take place the following week, with Power Dynamos scheduled to host the second fixture in Zambia. A strong result in Rwanda would place the Aba Yellow in a favourable position heading into the home match at Arthur Davies Stadium or an alternative venue.
This preliminary-round clash forms part of a busy period for Zambian clubs in African competition. Power Dynamos will be determined to represent the country with distinction and progress beyond the opening stage of the Champions League.
Supporters of the Kitwe club will be watching closely as their team embarks on another continental journey, hoping the side can return from Kigali with a result that keeps their group-stage ambitions firmly alive.