The CAF Confederation Cup quarter-final second leg will take place this Wednesday. Stellenbosch will be looking to make history and fly the flag for South Africa as they take on Zamalek in Cairo.
Stellenbosch held on for a 0-0 draw at Cape Town Stadium even though they were under heavy pressure in the last few minutes of the game. As they prepare for the crowd in Cairo, they have a tough task on their hands.
CAF Confederation Cup Pick of the Fixtures: Zamalek vs. Stellenbosch (0-0)
CAF Confederation Cup newcomers Stellenbosch FC (8.80) clung on for a 0-0 home draw against Egyptian giants Zamalek. Now, they face a daunting second leg in Cairo on Wednesday, hoping to pull off a historic upset. A close-range save by Sage Stephens from Nasser Mansi’s header kept Stellenbosch in the tie at Cape Town Stadium. Although far from their best, Stellies showed grit. Zamalek dominated late on, but Stellenbosch stayed disciplined and avoided conceding.
Importantly, the South Africans prevented Zamalek from scoring an away goal, which could prove crucial. Head coach Steve Barker said Stellenbosch learned from earlier group-stage matches, particularly against RS Berkane. Despite this, Barker believes his team competed well in the first leg. However, the second leg is another story. Even optimistic fans know Zamalek will be stronger at home. A small, vocal Zamalek crowd travelled to Cape Town, showing the club’s wide support.
Simba SC vs. Al Masry (0-2)
Abderrahim Deghmoum and John Okoye Ebuka scored for Al Masry with only two shots on target in the first leg. However, they cannot take victory for granted against a strong Simba side at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar Es Salaam.
Fadlu Davids will be looking to mastermind a comeback and with the home crowd behind him, an upset could be on the cards in the second leg. However, Simba’s lack of an away goal may come back to bite them.
RS Berkane vs. ASEC Mimosas (1-0)
RS Berkane are the form team in this tournament. They are running away with the Moroccan Botola Pro 1 title, 15 points clear of second-placed AS FAR. Berkane have beaten some strong teams in this tournament, including Stellenbosch.
ASEC Abidjan (20.00) is a famous club that has produced some of the best players in Ivorian soccer. However, a win in Berkane is likely to be a step too far for them. RS Berkane are favourites for this tie.
USM Alger vs. CS Constantine (1-1)
USM Alger will be hosting fellow Algerian side CS Constantine in one of the tightest second-leg fixtures to call. The first leg saw Mounder Temine open the scoring for CS Constantine. Kévin Mondeko equalised for USM Alger and USM held on for the draw despite a red card for Salim Boukhenchouche.
The second leg is likely to be full of drama and the away goal that USM Alger scored in the first leg may well be decisive.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the CAF Confederation Cup quarter-finals remain wide open ahead of the second legs. Although Zamalek are favourites, Stellenbosch have proven they are tough to beat. Meanwhile, Al Masry, RS Berkane and USM Alger all carry slim advantages. However, anything can still happen.
Importantly, each tie offers drama, suspense and plenty of excitement. With that in mind, fans and punters alike are keeping a close eye on soccer betting markets. As always, recent form, away goals and home advantage are vital.
Moreover, team news and tactical changes could swing momentum either way. Still, clubs like Stellenbosch have nothing to lose and everything to gain. In contrast, giants like Zamalek face high pressure. Ultimately, the second legs promise thrilling football across the continent. Be sure to follow every moment as the race to the CAF Confederation Cup semi-finals heats up.
