The CAF Confederation Cup quarter-final first leg delivered thrilling encounters across the continent, as clubs battled for an advantage ahead of the decisive return fixtures.
Al Masry 2-0 Simba SC: Egyptian Giants Take Commanding Lead
Al Masry showcased their strength on home soil with a 2-0 victory over Tanzanian side Simba SC. The Egyptian outfit took control early on, displaying sharp attacking prowess and solid defensive organization. Goals from Ahmed Refaat and Islam Attia sealed the victory, giving Al Masry a crucial cushion as they head to Tanzania for the second leg.
Simba SC, known for their spirited performances in the tournament, found it difficult to break through the resolute Al Masry defense. The Tanzanian champions will now have to mount a remarkable comeback on home turf if they are to progress to the semi-finals.
ASEC Mimosas 0-1 RS Berkane: Moroccans Snatch Vital Away Win
RS Berkane proved their mettle on the road, securing a narrow 1-0 victory over ASEC Mimosas in Abidjan. The Moroccans were compact and clinical, capitalizing on a lapse in the Ivorian defense to net the game's only goal through Youssef El Fahli.
ASEC Mimosas pushed hard for an equalizer but were met with stiff resistance from Berkane’s well-organized backline. The defeat leaves ASEC with a daunting task in the second leg as they travel to Morocco needing a win to keep their dreams alive.
CS Constantine 1-1 USM Alger: All-Algerian Affair Ends Even
In an intense all-Algerian clash, CS Constantine and USM Alger played out a 1-1 draw, leaving the tie delicately balanced. CS Constantine took the lead through a well-taken goal by Mohamed Amoura, but USM Alger responded with an equalizer from Zineddine Belaïd.
The game was a fiercely contested battle of tactics and determination, with both teams creating chances but failing to find a decisive second goal. Nigerian forward Tosin Omoyele featured for CS Constantine, while it remains unconfirmed whether Wale Musa Alli took part for USM Alger.
Stellenbosch 0-0 Zamalek: Stalemate in South Africa
Stellenbosch and Zamalek played out a goalless draw in South Africa, leaving everything to play for in the return leg in Cairo. The South African side held their own against the Egyptian giants, showing resilience and tactical discipline. Despite several opportunities for both teams, neither managed to break the deadlock.
Zamalek will feel the pressure heading into the second leg at home, knowing that Stellenbosch’s solid defense could pose a challenge once again.
Second Leg Expectations
With the second legs looming, Al Masry and RS Berkane hold slender but vital advantages, while the all-Algerian tie is set for a thrilling conclusion. Stellenbosch and Zamalek remain evenly poised, with both teams needing a decisive performance to advance. Simba SC and ASEC Mimosas will need to summon their best performances at home if they are to overturn their deficits.
Stay tuned for more updates and coverage of the CAF Confederation Cup right here!
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