Francis Kasonde, former Zambia international has described Zesco United and Power Dynamos Football Club as underdogs in their respective CAF Inter-club group stage campaigns but believes the tag could work to their advantage.

Kasonde, represented both clubs during his illustrious career.

CAF Champions League Group A has Power Dynamos (Zambia) alongside defending champions Pyramids (Egypt), CAF Confederation Cup holders RS Berkane (Morocco), and Nigeria’s Rivers United.

Zesco United is in Group D of the CAF Confederation Cup with Zamalek (Egypt), Al Masry (Egypt), and Kaizer Chiefs (South Africa).

Kasonde, has congratulated the two Zambian sides for reaching the group stage, describing it as a sign of progress for domestic football.

“Congratulations to Power Dynamos and Zesco United for making it to the group stage,” Kasonde said.

“Exposure and experience” – Kasonde.

“Power Dynamos and Zesco United have an advantage because being underdogs gives them an opportunity to surprise everyone. Most of the teams in their groups are consistent in CAF competitions year in and year out, but that’s where the motivation should come from. Being drawn with teams like Pyramids FC gives Power Dynamos great exposure and experience.”

The 2012 Africa Cup winner further encouraged both Zambian representatives to prepare adequately and play with confidence.

“They just have to work hard, prepare right, and play with confidence—anything is possible in football. No team is unbeatable, and this is their time to show that Zambia belongs among Africa’s best,” he added.

The CAF group stages will kick off on the weekend of 21–23 November, with two matchdays scheduled before the start of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025, and will resume from 23 to 25 January 2026.

The CAF Champions League winners will walk away with USD 4 million, while the Confederation Cup champions will take home USD 2 million.