The TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup quarterfinals delivered high drama, controversy, and unforgettable moments, ultimately setting up an all-North African showdown in the semifinals.
Clubs from Algeria, Morocco, and Egypt stamped their authority on the competition, with USM Alger, Olympique de Safi, Zamalek, and CR Belouizdad all progressing to the last four.
CAF draws produce blockbuster Confederation Cup quarter-final duels
One of the most gripping encounters unfolded in Morocco, where Olympique de Safi narrowly edged past Wydad Casablanca on the away goals rule. The second leg ended 2-2, sealing a 3-3 aggregate result in a fiercely contested tie.
The match turned chaotic early on when Wydad’s goalkeeper was dismissed in the 24th minute for handling the ball outside the penalty area. Despite the setback, Wydad fought back with goals from Mohamed Moufid and Hakim Ziyech. However, strikes from Sofiane El Moudane and Moussa Kone ensured Safi advanced in dramatic fashion.
In Cairo, Zamalek had to dig deep to overcome AS Otoho. The Egyptian side secured a 2-1 victory on the night, progressing 3-2 on aggregate. The encounter took an unexpected twist when Zamalek’s goalkeeper was sent off, forcing forward Seifedinne Jaziri to temporarily take over between the posts.
Goals from Hossam Abdel-Maguid and Oday Dabbagh proved decisive for Zamalek, while Grace Mavungo netted a consolation for the Congolese visitors.
نهاية المباراة، إلى نصف نهائي الكونفدرالية⚪️🏹#Zamalek | #MostTitledIn20C | #الزمالك_أولًا | #أكبر_قلعة_رياضية pic.twitter.com/TO2g1CZBRA
— Zamalek SC (@ZSCOfficial) March 22, 2026
Zamalek’s reward is a semifinal clash against CR Belouizdad, who held firm to eliminate Al Masry. After a 1-1 draw in Cairo, the Algerian side secured qualification with a disciplined goalless draw at home.
Meanwhile, USM Alger completed their job with efficiency, defeating AS Maniema Union 1-0 to seal a 3-1 aggregate victory. They now prepare for a semifinal meeting with Olympique de Safi.
With all four semifinalists hailing from North Africa, the competition now shifts into a fierce regional rivalry, promising intense clashes as the battle for continental glory reaches its decisive stage.
