CAF Confederation Cup Quarterfinals Kick Off With High-Stakes First-Leg Clashes

CAF Confederation Cup Quarterfinals Kick Off With High-Stakes First-Leg Clashes

By Niyi Busari 

The knockout phase of the CAF Confederation Cup resumes this weekend as eight teams from across the continent compete in the first leg of the quarterfinals, each hoping to secure an early advantage in their two-legged ties, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Four matches are scheduled between Saturday and early Monday, featuring a mix of established continental powers and emerging challengers vying for a place in the semifinals.

Otohô host Zamalek in Brazzaville

The quarterfinal action begins on Saturday when AS Otohô welcome Egyptian giants Zamalek SC at the Stade Alphonse Massamba‑Débat in Brazzaville.

AS Otohô progressed to the knockout stage after finishing second in Group C with three wins and three defeats, ending four points ahead of South African side Stellenbosch FC. The Congolese club will look to capitalise on home advantage before the return leg in Egypt.

Zamalek, meanwhile, topped Group D with three wins, two draws and one defeat. The Egyptian Premier League leaders are aiming to secure their third Confederation Cup title since the 2018/19 campaign and will be eager to start their quarterfinal tie with a positive result away from home.

Al Masry face Belouizdad test

Later on Saturday, Al Masry SC take on CR Belouizdad at the New Suez Stadium in Suez.

Al Masry secured their place in the knockout round in dramatic fashion, edging out Kaizer Chiefs on goal difference after both teams finished with identical records of three wins, one draw and two defeats. The Egyptian side will be seeking a first appearance in the semifinals since 2018.

CR Belouizdad enter the match in strong form after finishing top of Group C with five victories and only one loss. The Algerian club is currently unbeaten in its last nine matches in all competitions and will aim to extend that run in Suez.

Maniema Union meet USM Alger

Sunday’s action begins in Lubumbashi, where Maniema Union face USM Alger at the Stade TP Mazembe.

Maniema Union finished second in Group B with four wins and two losses. Playing in Lubumbashi could prove advantageous, as the venue has already posed difficulties this season for teams such as Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns.

USM Alger arrive with an unbeaten group-stage record, topping Group A with four wins and two draws. The Algerian side will be determined to maintain their undefeated run as they pursue a place in the final four.

Moroccan derby closes the round

The final quarterfinal first leg will take place early Monday when Olympic Club de Safi host Wydad AC at the Stade El Massira in Safi.

Wydad dominated Group B with five wins and one defeat, while OC Safi secured second place in Group A after recording four wins, one draw and one loss.

The Moroccan rivals have already met this season in the domestic Botola Pro, with Wydad claiming victory in their November encounter. Safi will be hoping to reverse that result on home soil.

With the Moroccan derby the only quarterfinal pairing featuring teams from the same country, the opening leg promises a fiercely contested start to the knockout stage as clubs battle for momentum in the race for continental silverware.

Confederation Cup Quarterfinal First-Leg Fixtures

Saturday, 14 March

15:00 CAT — AS Otohô vs Zamalek

22:00 CAT — Al Masry vs CR Belouizdad

Sunday, 15 March

15:00 CAT — Maniema Union vs USM Alger a

Monday, 16 March

00:00 CAT — Olympic Club de Safi vs Wydad AC