The CAF Confederation Cup Semi-Finals Heat Up: Epic North African & Southern Clashs

Moroccan giants RS Berkane are one step closer to reclaiming their lost CAF Confederation Cup crown. The team is set to face CS Constantine in the first leg of the semi-finals on Sunday in what promises to be a thrilling North African clash.

Berkane Aiming for a Historic Third Title

With two titles in the last three years (2020 & 2022), Berkane are hungry for a third continental trophy. The team enters the semi-finals with renewed confidence after clinching their first-ever Moroccan league title. Under the leadership of Mouin Chaabani, Berkane has been clinical and composed, notably knocking out ASEC Mimosas with back-to-back 1-0 victories in the quarter-finals.

CS Constantine’s Semi-Final Debut

On the other hand, CS Constantine is making their semi-final debut in the competition. Coached by Kheireddine Madoui, they stunned USM Alger on penalties to secure their place in the final four. Now, they are dreaming of reaching their first-ever CAF Confederation Cup final.

A Fierce North African Derby

This Moroccan-Algerian derby is sure to be filled with high tension and fierce rivalry, further heightened by the political undertones that have marked regional matchups in recent years. Berkane, buoyed by strong home support in Saidia, will be looking to gain an advantage in the first leg. Meanwhile, Madoui’s CS Constantine will aim to grab a crucial away goal.

“We must avoid conceding and maybe snatch a goal to ease things in the return leg,” stated Madoui before the team's departure.

Simba SC vs Stellenbosch FC: The Underdogs' Dream

In the other semi-final, Simba SC (Tanzania) will face Stellenbosch FC (South Africa) in a highly anticipated clash.

Simba, backed by passionate fans at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium, are eager to capitalize on their continental experience after ousting Al Masry on penalties. But all eyes are on Stellenbosch FC, who have emerged as the tournament’s surprise package. Founded just 15 years ago, Stellenbosch eliminated Zamalek in dramatic fashion with a 1-0 win at Cairo International Stadium.

Steve Barker’s disciplined, fearless squad plays without pressure, and key player Sihle Nduli, scorer of their historic goal in Egypt, will be pivotal to their dreams of a final berth.

Simba will look to impose their rhythm early and leverage home advantage to silence the South African fairytale.