CAF Cup: USMA and Belouizdad kick off, Wydad ensures
The 3rd day of the Confederation Cup was marked by a confirmed domination of the North African clubs, with a flawless for the Algerian representatives and a precious victory for Wydad Casablanca which is relaunching itself in the qualification race.
Philemon MBALE · Author profile ·
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Algeria in demonstration
USM Alger continues to impress. The Usmistes dictated their home rule against the Malians of Djoliba (2-0), on Saturday, asserting themselves as the undisputed leaders of Group A. At the same time, Olympique Safi made an excellent operation by winning in Côte d'Ivoire against FC San Pedro (2-1). This success allows the Moroccans to stay in touch with the USMA, while leaving the Ivorians in doubt.
In Group C, the CR Belouizdad perfectly negotiated his meeting with the South Africans from Stellenbosch. A clear victory (2-0) which allows the Algerian club to take a serious option on qualification. In the other meeting, the Singida Black Stars surprised AS Otôho (1-0), confirming that this group will be played until the last second.
Wydad regains smile, Azam wins on the road
After a sometimes laborious start, Wydad Casablanca ensured the minimum but essential service against the Congolese of Maniema Union (1-0). In a match where the tension was palpable, the Moroccans were patient to win the three points for Hakim Ziyech’s debut in interclub competition. In the same Group B, the Tanzanians of Azam FC confirmed their excellent form of the moment by winning on the lawn of Nairobi United (2-1), thus consolidating their position as serious contenders.
The awakening of the Kaizer Chiefs, Zamalek remains silent
It was one of the most perilous trips of the day, and Kaizer Chiefs got away with it. By winning 1-0 on the field of Zesco United in Zambia, the South African club sends a strong signal to the competition.
Finally, the 100% Egyptian duel between the title holder, Zamalek, and Al-Masry ended with a 0-0 draw. A tactical and intense match that doesn’t suit anyone in the standings, but which highlights the difficulty for the Cairo club to find its rhythm this season against its national rivals on the continental stage.
The results of the 3rd day
Group A
San Pedro 1-2 Olympic Safi
USM Alger 2-0 Djoliba
Group B
Nairobi United 1-2 Azam
Wydad Casablanca 1-0 Maniema Union
Group C
Singida Black Stars 1-0 AS Otôho
CR Belouizdad 2-0 Stellenbosh
Group D
Zesco United 0-1 Kaizer Chiefs
Zamalek 0-0 Al-Masry