CAF Confederation Cup Quarter-Final Draw Sets Stage for Fierce African Showdowns
The quarter-final and semi-final fixtures for the CAF Confederation Cup have been officially confirmed following Tuesday’s draw ceremony in Cairo, setting up several exciting clashes across the continent.
One of the standout ties will see Moroccan sides Olympique de Safi and Wydad Casablanca face off in a domestic showdown, with Safi hosting the first leg.
The quarter-final matches are scheduled for March 15 (first leg) and March 22 (second leg), while the semi-finals will take place on April 12 and April 19 respectively.
Quarter-Final Fixtures
Al Masry (Egypt) vs CR Belouizdad (Algeria)
Olympique de Safi (Morocco) vs Wydad Casablanca (Morocco)
AS Otoho (Congo) vs Zamalek SC (Egypt)
AS Maniema Union (DR Congo) vs USM Alger (Algeria)
Potential Semi-Final Paths
SF1: AS Maniema Union / USM Alger vs Olympique de Safi / Wydad Casablanca
SF2: Al Masry / CR Belouizdad vs AS Otoho / Zamalek SC
The fixtures promise intense competition as clubs battle for continental glory and a place in the final.
Opinion: A Tournament Growing in Prestige and Competition
The CAF Confederation Cup has often lived in the shadow of the CAF Champions League, but recent seasons show that the competition is gaining prestige, quality, and global attention. The diversity of clubs in the quarter-finals — spanning North, Central, and Southern Africa — reflects the improving competitiveness across African football.
The Moroccan derby between Olympique de Safi and Wydad Casablanca adds extra drama, proving that continental competitions can amplify local rivalries to a new level. Meanwhile, traditional powerhouses like Zamalek and USM Alger will be under pressure to justify their reputations against ambitious challengers.
For African football fans, tournaments like this are more than trophies; they are platforms for talent discovery, club growth, and continental pride. Every successful campaign strengthens domestic leagues and inspires young players across the continent.
As the knockout stages approach, one thing is certain — the margins between Africa’s top clubs are shrinking, and unpredictability is becoming the competition’s greatest attraction.
And perhaps that is exactly what African football needs: intensity, opportunity, and belief that any club can rise.
