The first-leg matches of the TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup's second preliminary round on Sunday, 19 October, showcased exciting competition as African teams competed for an early advantage toward the group stage.
Algeria’s CR Belouizdad managed to secure a valuable away draw against Hafia FC from Guinea. At the same time, their fellow citizens, USM Alger, experienced a narrow loss against Académie Diallo Amadou from Côte d’Ivoire.
In another significant encounter, Djoliba AC from Mali achieved a crucial away victory over Burkina Faso’s USFA.
Hafia FC (GUI) 1–1 CR Belouizdad (ALG)
CR Belouizdad returned from Conakry with an essential 1–1 draw that keeps their chances of qualification alive as they head into the return leg in Algiers. Hafia FC took the lead in the 62nd minute thanks to Alhassane Kamara. Still, Belouizdad quickly levelled the score just three minutes later when Khacef found the net, securing a vital outcome for the Algerian team.
Académie Diallo Amadou (CIV) 1–0 USM Alger (ALG)
The Algerian powerhouses, USM Alger, faced a challenging night in Côte d’Ivoire, losing 1–0 to Académie Diallo Amadou. The home team struck early when Kalilou Garjo took advantage of a defensive mistake in the ninth minute.
Despite dominating periods and creating multiple opportunities, the Algerian side failed to score and will now strive to reverse the situation in the return match in Algiers.
USFA (BFA) 0–1 Djoliba AC (MLI)
Mali’s Djoliba AC secured a critical 1–0 win against USFA in Ouagadougou. The winning goal was scored in the 84th minute by Kader Knam, putting the visitors in a solid position heading into the second leg in Bamako.
With the return matches set for next weekend, all eyes will be on the Algerian teams CR Belouizdad and USM Alger, who will aim to utilise their home advantage and secure their places in the TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup group stage.
