COSAFA clubs return to action in African club competitions this weekend as they seek to take a step closer to the group stages of the respective tournaments.

South African side Mamelodi Sundowns travel to Kinshasa in the DR Congo for a tough African Champions League away day at AS Vita Club, who have never lost a tie to opposition from the country before.

Sundowns are expected to be confronted by 50,000 fans for what will be an intimidating atmosphere.

The club has targeted success in the continental competition this season, hoping to become the first side from South Africa to lift the trophy since Orlando Pirates in 1995.

Zambian champions Zesco United are also away in the first leg of their clash against Stade Malien that will prove another huge test for the team.

The victors in these ties will advance to the group stages of the Champions League.

There are also two COSAFA club still in the African Confederation Cup with Zambian club Zanaco at home to Tunisian side Stade Gabèsien.

But Angolan side Sagrada Esperança must travel away for the first leg of their clash against Vita Club Mokanda from Congo-Brazzaville.

The winners of these ties advance to the third round of the competition where they face the eight losers from the round of ties in the Champions League for a place in the Confederation Cup group stages.