Moroccan derby ignites CAF Confederation Cup quarter-finals

...As road to 2025/26 final is unveiled

By Trust Ittai

A fierce North African rivalry will take centre stage in the quarter-finals of the TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup after the draw conducted in Cairo on Tuesday set up a mouthwatering Moroccan derby.

Morocco’s Olympique de Safi will host compatriots Wydad Casablanca in the first leg of their quarter-final tie on 15 March.

The clash guarantees Morocco a representative in the semi-finals and promises high drama between two sides well-versed in each other’s strengths and weaknesses.

With pride and continental progression at stake, the derby is expected to be one of the most intense fixtures of the round.

Egyptian giants Zamalek SC will begin their campaign on the road against Congolese side AS Otoho. Zamalek, one of Africa’s most decorated clubs, will be aiming to secure a favourable result away before hosting the decisive second leg on 22 March.

Meanwhile, fellow Egyptian side Al Masry will welcome Algeria’s CR Belouizdad in what promises to be a tightly contested North African battle.

In another intriguing fixture, AS Maniema Union of the Democratic Republic of Congo will host Algerian powerhouse USM Alger in the first leg.

Both sides have shown resilience throughout the tournament and will be eager to seize the early advantage.

The draw also outlined the path to the final. The winner between AS Maniema Union and USM Alger will host the first leg of their semi-final against the victor of the Moroccan derby between Olympique de Safi and Wydad Casablanca.

On the other side of the bracket, the winner of Al Masry versus CR Belouizdad will host first against whoever emerges triumphant between AS Otoho and Zamalek SC.

The semi-finals are scheduled for 12 April (first leg) and 19 April (second leg).

The grand finale will unfold over two legs, with the first leg set for 9 May and the return fixture on 16 May.

The team advancing from the designated semi-final bracket will enjoy the advantage of hosting the opening leg of the final.

With continental glory within reach and regional rivalries adding extra spice, the race for the 2025/26 CAF Confederation Cup title promises fireworks in the weeks ahead.

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