ASEC Mimosas begin their attempt to restore their status among Africa’s leading clubs when they return to the CAF Champions League after a two-year absence. The 1998 African champions face ASCK of Togo in the first qualifying round, hoping this season can mark the beginning of a renewed challenge for continental honours.
ASEC Mimosas were among the clubs that left a significant mark on African football during the latter part of the 20th century. Since then, however, the club have struggled to reproduce the success that once established them as a major force across the continent.
Their return to the CAF Champions League provides an opportunity to move beyond that difficult period and begin rebuilding their reputation. The club’s progress this season will be closely watched, with the central question being how far the Mimos can advance in Africa’s leading club competition.
Their most recent appearance came in the 2023-24 campaign, when the Yellow and Black finished top of their group. They ended the group stage ahead of Wydad Casablanca, Simba SC and Jwaneng Galaxy FC, securing a place in the knockout rounds.
That run ultimately ended in the quarter-finals. ASEC Mimosas were eliminated at home by Esperance Sportive de Tunis, bringing their campaign to a disappointing conclusion despite an impressive group-stage performance.
Two years on, the club are back in the competition and seeking a stronger finish. Their first obstacle is ASCK, a Togolese side they have faced before and eliminated several years ago. The meeting therefore offers ASEC Mimosas a chance to repeat a result from their previous encounters while taking the first step towards the later stages of the tournament.
The club’s ambitions are built in part on a reputation for developing young players. ASEC Mimosas are widely known for the quality of their academy, which has long been an important part of the club’s identity. That tradition of player development remains central as they attempt to reconnect with the success of the past.
A victory over ASCK would send the Mimos into the next stage of the qualifying process. There, they would meet the winner of the tie between MAS de Fes of Morocco and Rahimo FC of Burkina Faso.
The route to the group stage will therefore begin with a familiar opponent and could continue with another demanding tie. For ASEC Mimosas, the immediate priority is to negotiate the opening round, but the broader objective is to restore the club’s place among the continent’s most competitive teams.
Champions of Africa in 1998, the Mimos now have another opportunity to revive their continental story. This season will show whether their return can develop into a sustained challenge for the CAF Champions League title.