CR Belouizdad has reached the semi-finals of the TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup for the first time in 30 years.
They secured their spot after a tense goalless draw against Al-Masry from Egypt in Algiers. The Algerian team advanced with an aggregate score, having drawn 1-1 in the first leg in Egypt.
The match at the Nelson Mandela Stadium marked a historic moment for the club, which last reached this stage in 1996.
Belouizdad started the match strongly, pressing high and quickly creating chances. In the first seven minutes, Mohamed Ali Ben Hammouda’s shot lacked power, allowing Al-Masry’s goalkeeper, Essam Tharwat, to make an easy save.
Midway through the first half, defender Hussein Ben Ayada forced Tharwat into a strong save, and Ben Hammouda’s header skimmed just over the crossbar.
As the first half progressed, Al-Masry began creating opportunities, with a long-range shot testing Belouizdad’s goalkeeper Farid Chaal just before half-time. Despite the pressure, both teams went into the break level.
In the second half, both sides struggled to score, with Belouizdad focusing on defence. Al-Masry pushed hard for a goal, especially with forward Daghmoum becoming a threat late in the game. However, Chaal and the defence held firm.
The match ended in a goalless draw, sending Belouizdad to the semi-finals to face the winner between Zamalek and Otoho. For Al-Masry, this result marked the end of their campaign. Belouizdad celebrates a return to the last four of a continental competition after 30 years.
