By Bola Yapa Zed | 24th October 2025
MTN Super League champions Power Dynamos have officially booked their place in the 2025/26 CAF Champions League group stage after a 3–2 aggregate triumph over Ugandan giants Vipers SC. The Abayellow held their nerve at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola, drawing 1–1 on Independence Day to seal qualification and continue Zambia’s representation on the continental stage.
With a slender 2–1 lead from the first leg in Uganda, Power Dynamos needed composure and tactical discipline to complete the mission at home — and they delivered. The Zambian champions took control in the second half when Kenyan forward Moses Shumah opened the scoring in the 69th minute, sparking wild celebrations among the home crowd.
However, Karim Watambala equalized for the Venoms in the 80th minute, creating a tense finish. Despite late pressure from Vipers, Coach Osward Mutapa’s men held their shape defensively and saw out the match to secure a 3–2 aggregate victory. The result marks a major milestone for the Ndola-based side, who have shown both attacking flair and resilience throughout the qualifiers.
Reaching the group stage is not only a sporting achievement but also a financial boost for the Zambian champions. Power Dynamos are set to pocket over K15 million from the Confederation of African Football (CAF) in participation earnings.
Meanwhile, their Ugandan counterparts, Vipers SC, will receive USD 100,000 (approximately K2.2 million) from CAF to cover logistical expenses after bowing out of the competition. For Power Dynamos, the focus now shifts to preparing for the group stage, where they will face some of Africa’s elite clubs in a quest to advance to the knockout rounds.
After the match, Power Dynamos head coach Osward Mutapa commended his players for their commitment and focus throughout the two-legged tie.
“We came into this game knowing it was going to be difficult, but we were determined to get the job done,” said Mutapa. “We’ve achieved one part of our mission, but the real work begins in the group stage. The boys showed great character, and we’ll build on this momentum.”
Mutapa added that his team’s target is not just participation but competitiveness. “We’ve set a benchmark for ourselves — we want to compete, not just take part,” he emphasized.
The CAF Champions League Group Stage draw will take place on Monday, November 3rd, 2025, at 14:00hrs local time in the SuperSport Studios, Randburg, South Africa. Power Dynamos will discover their group opponents as they prepare for another exciting chapter in their continental campaign.
With strong attacking options, growing continental experience, and a passionate fan base, Abayellow will now look to carry Zambia’s flag proudly in Africa’s most prestigious club competition.
Power Dynamos’ qualification for the CAF Champions League group stage is a defining moment for Zambian football. Their 3–2 aggregate win over Vipers SC highlights their growing stature as a force to be reckoned with on the continent. As they prepare for the group stage draw, the champions will aim to build on this success and continue their mission to restore Zambia’s dominance in African club football.
