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RS Berkane Miss Out on Early CAF Champions League Qualification

RS Berkane missed the opportunity to secure their place in the CAF Champions League quarter-finals after suffering a damaging 2-0 defeat away to Power Dynamos on Saturday, with the result reopening the qualification race in Group A.

The goal for RS Berkane was simple: get a draw and secure qualification today. But a sluggish second-half display cost them dearly, handing a lifeline to Power Dynamos, who looked like the hungrier team throughout the final 45 minutes playing with urgency and belief.

After a pretty quiet first half where neither side could break the deadlock, the hosts struck just two minutes after the break. Chifwunde Mfasi pounced on a lapse in the defense to put Power Dynamos ahead, instantly firing up the home crowd and swinging the momentum completely in their favor.

Berkane struggled to respond, dominating possession at times but failing to translate control into clear chances. Their inability to impose themselves in the final third proved costly, and as they pushed forward in search of an equalizer, spaces began to open up.

Power Dynamos made the most of those openings late in the game. Prince Mumba found the net in the dying minutes to make it 2–0, officially ending Berkane’s chances of securing their spot early. It was a massive statement from the Zambian side, who look like a different team lately.

The loss leaves Berkane still second in Group A on seven points but now under pressure heading into the final round of fixtures. Power Dynamos have now drawn level on points and remain firmly in contention. Rivers United are officially out, but they still have the power to influence who finishes in those top spots.

Qualification is still within RS Berkane’s grasp, but what should have been a routine confirmation of progress has instead become a nervy wait for the final matchday.

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