The quarterfinal second leg of the CAF Cup was held this Sunday, April 30. After a spectacular match, USM Alger was unsure, but managed to validate its qualification for the last four with ASEC Mimosa, Marumo Gallants FC and Young Africans.
USM Alger resists and defeats AS Far
It was probably the most spectacular match with the most suspense since the beginning of these quarterfinals of the CAF Cup. The opposition between AS Far and USM Alger was rich in goals and twists. The victory of USM Alger (2-0) did not guarantee a qualification. And we could see it tonight. In front of their public, the Moroccans opened quickly the score at the 8th on an own goal of Oussama Chita. On the other side, the Algerians refused to sink and equalized thanks to Redouani (12th). AS Far continues the pressure and manages to put a second goal in the 60th minute by Borges. But the Algerians refuse to let go of their ticket for qualification. Bousseliou (78th) put probably the most important goal of the season that allows his teammates to validate the qualification. Although AS Far scored again in the 97th minute to win 3-2, Mohamed Hrimat and the Moroccans were eliminated at the door of the CAF Cup semi-finals.
Nine years later, an Ivorian club in the semis
The Stade de la Paix in Bouaké did not respond with empty seats, but this was not an obstacle for the players of ASEC Mimosas to show themselves worthy of the event. After a draw in the first leg (0-0), the Yellow and Black were conquerors against the US Monastir in the return (2-0). It was at the 45th minute that the lock exploded on a powerful shot from Carlos Zouzou to put the Ivorians ahead in the score. Despite this advantage, the Mimos continue to put pressure to score a second goal. And that happens at the 92nd by Pacome Zouzoua. This qualification for the semi-finals is an event because for the first time in 9 years with Séwé Sport of San Pedro, an Ivorian club is in the last four of this competition.
Rivers United powerless against Young Africans
Young Africans will see the semifinals after beating Rivers United. The Tanzanian team won 2-0 in the first leg of the match to advance to the semi-finals. In front of their public, they held to finish the game with a draw (0-0). End of course for the Nigerians of Rivers United. Offensively, they could never get the upper hand on the Tanzanian defense to give themselves the means to dream of qualification.
Marumo Gallants FC overtake the Egyptians
The place for the semi-finals is assured by the South African Marumo Gallants FC. The good draw (1-1) obtained in the first leg against Pyramids was beneficial for them in front of their public. Celimpilo Ngema took advantage of a mistake by the Egyptians to score the winning goal in the 39th minute. Despite some attempts by the Egyptians, Pyramids FC will not succeed in hanging on to the extra time. Marumo Gallants will see the last four of the CAF Cup where they will face Young Africans.
The Fixtures of the semi-finals of CAF Cup
Young Africans (Tanzania) - Marumo Gallants (South Africa)
USM Alger (Algeria) - ASEC Mimosas (Ivory Coast)
