The CAF Champions League’s second preliminary round reaches its decisive stage on Saturday, with five return matches set to determine which clubs progress to the group phase.

Several of Africa’s leading sides face demanding tests on home soil. Esperance de Tunis and Zamalek SC will aim to finish the job in front of their supporters, while Pyramids FC and RS Berkane will look to protect the advantage they established in the opening legs.

The results will decide which teams secure a place among the continent’s leading clubs in the next stage of the competition. Each tie remains significant, with qualification resting on the outcome of Saturday’s fixtures.

Esperance de Tunis host Asswehly SC at 16:00 GMT, before Zamalek SC welcome APR FC at 17:00 GMT. Both North African clubs are expected to face determined opposition as they seek to move through to the group phase.

Also at 17:00 GMT, Al Merreikh play Horoya AC, while Pyramids FC meet El Merriekh Bentiu. Pyramids FC will be seeking to confirm the advantage they gained in the first encounter.

The day’s final match begins at 19:00 GMT, when RS Berkane take on Star Sport Academy. The Moroccan side will attempt to complete the job and join the other successful qualifiers in the next round.

Saturday’s fixtures

- 16:00 GMT: Esperance de Tunis v Asswehly SC - 17:00 GMT: Zamalek SC v APR FC - 17:00 GMT: Al Merreikh v Horoya AC - 17:00 GMT: Pyramids FC v El Merriekh Bentiu - 19:00 GMT: RS Berkane v Star Sport Academy