Zakaria Aboub, OC Safi coach, advocates a winning mentality against San Pedro in the CAF Confederations Cup

Morocco's OC Safi is travelling to Ivory Coast to face FC San Pedro on Sunday 25 January 2026 at the Laurent Pokou stadium. Ahead of this Group A match on the third day of the 2025-26 Confederation Cup, Zakaria Aboub, coach of the Moroccan club, held the traditional pre-match press conference.

Speaking to the press on Saturday 24 January, the Moroccan coach discussed the mindset needed to win a match in CAF interclub competitions. ‘Matches in Africa are won with courage and a strong mentality,’ said Zakaria Aboub. Although OC Safi is counting on its abilities for this match, player Mohamed Chemlal, also present at the press conference, said that he and his teammates have respect for FC San Pedro. ‘We respect our opponent, but we are confident in our abilities.’

This match is crucial for OC Safi and San Pedro in the race to qualify for the next round of the competition. The Moroccan club leads Group A with 6 points after 2 matches. It is followed by the Ivorian club with 3 points.

• Group A standings

1. USM Alger - 6 points
2. FC San Pedro – 3 points
3. OC Safi – 3 points
4. Djoliba – 0 points