Zamalek's Remarkable Journey in the CAF Confederation Cup
In a thrilling display of footballing prowess, Zamalek SC has emerged as a beacon of hope for Egyptian clubs in the ongoing CAF Confederation Cup. The team successfully navigated through the knockout stages by defeating Otoho d’Oyo with a cumulative score of 3-2, showcasing their resilience and determination. This victory came after a hard-fought first leg that ended in a 1-1 draw away from home, followed by a decisive 2-1 win on their home turf at the Cairo International Stadium. Unfortunately for Egypt, Zamalek stands as the only representative left in the tournament, following earlier exits from other prominent teams such as Al Ahly, Pyramids, and Al Masry.
Moroccan Clubs Dominate the Knockouts
The knockout rounds have seen an impressive performance from Moroccan clubs, particularly in the Champions League and Confederation Cup. USM Alger managed to edge past Maniema Union on away goals, thanks to their 1-0 victory at home, which concluded the aggregate score at 2-2. In a surprising twist, Olympique de Safi eliminated Wydad Casablanca in an all-Moroccan matchup, advancing on away goals after a thrilling aggregate tie of 3-3, which included a 2-2 draw in the second leg.
As the competition progresses, the semi-finals will feature USM Alger facing off against Olympique de Safi, while Zamalek will take on the formidable Algerian side CR Belouizdad. On the Champions League front, Moroccan clubs RS Berkane and AS FAR Rabat have both secured their spots in the semi-finals, with Berkane overcoming Al Hilal Omdurman with a 2-1 aggregate, while Mamelodi Sundowns managed to progress despite a 2-0 loss in the second leg against Stade Malien, maintaining their 3-2 lead overall from the first leg. The semi-final matchups promise to deliver exciting encounters, with Sundowns going up against the Tunisian champions Esperance de Tunis and an intriguing all-Moroccan battle between Berkane and AS FAR Rabat.
As reported by africanfootball.com.
