CAF Confederation Cup: Berkane Take Giant Step Toward Final After Historic 4-0 Win Over Constantine

Morocco’s RS Berkane have all but booked their place in the CAF Confederation Cup final after dismantling Algeria’s CS Constantine 4-0 in Sunday’s semi-final first leg. The night got off to a historic start when Youssef Mehri found the net just 14 seconds after kick-off—marking the fastest goal in the competition’s history.

First-Half Domination

Backed by a packed Municipal Stadium in Berkane, the hosts capitalized on home advantage and momentum. Senegalese striker Paul Valère Bassene doubled the lead in the 21st minute with a powerful header from Ayoub Khairi’s cross, as the Moroccan side completely overwhelmed their Algerian rivals.

Lamlioui Shines Again

The second half brought more punishment. In-form forward Oussama Lamlioui added a third goal in the 55th minute, finishing off a precise assist from Bassene. Though a second effort was ruled out for offside in the 84th minute, Lamlioui had the final word, scoring again in stoppage time (90+2) to seal an emphatic win. He now boasts 5 goals in this CAF campaign.

Berkane Poised for Another Final

Having already won the Confederation Cup in 2020 and 2022, and finishing runners-up twice (including this year's Super Cup loss to Zamalek), RS Berkane are on track for a third continental title. With a four-goal cushion, they will travel to Algeria next weekend with one foot already in the final.

The return leg will be held on Sunday, April 28, with the two-legged final scheduled for May 18 and 25.