Confederation Cup Round One review: North Africa record six wins on opening day as WAC, USM, Zamalek all secure victories

The 2025-26 CAF Confederation Cup commenced on Friday with Algerian side CR Belouizdad winning 2-0 against Singida Black Stars of Tanzania. Belhocini and Benguit’s first-half strikes ensured a good start for the Algerians.

Stellenbosch on Sunday narrowly defeated Congolese side Otoho d’Oyo through Ashley Cupido’s 93rd-minute strike.

Maniema, through Panzi and Ozome’s goals, condemned Azam to a 2-0 defeat in Kinshasa at the Stade des Martyrs.

Olympique de Safi enjoyed a 1-0 win in Mali over Djoliba AC with Salaheddine Errahouli scoring the winner in the 29th minute.

Al Masry beat Kaizer Chiefs in Cairo 2-1. Mugisha’s 59th-minute penalty for Al Masry was cancelled by Dillon Solomon’s 66th-minute goal. Wth just three minutes to end the game, Hashem Mohamed scored the winner to give the Egyptians a dream start to the competition.

Seifeddine Jaziri, on the stroke of half-time, gave Zamalek a lead against ZESCO from Zambia. The sole strike proved to be the winner as Zamalek won 1-0.

Moroccan giants Wydad Casablanca smashed 10-man Kenyan debutants Nairobi United 3-0. Goals from Ayoub Boucheta, Mohamed Bouchouari and Rayhi Mohamed condemned the Kenyans to a defeat in Casablanca.

Goals from Ghacha, Aillet and Rasdouni helped USM Alger beat San Pedro of the Ivory Coast 3-2. Kamagate and Karamoko were the targets for San Pedro.