The semi-final stage of the 2025/26 CAF Confederation Cup will feature four North African sides after the conclusion of the quarter-finals, setting up a series of high-stakes regional clashes in April 2026.
Algeria’s CR Belouizdad and USM Alger, Egypt’s Zamalek SC, and Morocco’s Olympic Club de Safi are the four teams still in contention for the continental title.
The semi-final fixtures will see Zamalek take on CR Belouizdad, while USM Alger face Olympic Club de Safi. Both ties will be played over two legs, with the first matches scheduled for 12 April and the return legs on 19 April 2026.
Zamalek, one of Africa’s most decorated clubs, progressed to the last four after a dramatic quarter-final encounter with AS Otohô. The Egyptian side held on to a 3-2 aggregate lead despite being reduced to 10 men, with striker Seifeddine Jaziri even stepping in as an emergency goalkeeper late in the match. Their experience and pedigree make them one of the favourites heading into the semi-finals, although they are expected to face a stern test against their Algerian opponents.
CR Belouizdad’s journey to this stage marks a significant milestone for the club, as they reach a continental semi-final for the first time in three decades. They secured progression after a closely contested tie against Al Masry SC, advancing on the back of a disciplined defensive performance and effective use of home advantage at the Stade de Nelson Mandela.
Fellow Algerian side USM Alger continue to underline their credentials as one of the competition’s strongest teams. The 2023 champions booked their place in the semi-finals after edging past Maniema Union, drawing 2-2 on aggregate before securing a narrow 1-0 win in the decisive second leg. Their experience in knockout football and ability to manage tight contests make them a formidable contender for the title.
Olympic Club de Safi, meanwhile, are the surprise package of the tournament. The Moroccan side reached their first-ever Confederation Cup semi-final after a dramatic tie against Wydad Casablanca. A 3-3 aggregate scoreline saw Safi progress on away goals following a 2-2 draw in the second leg, where they demonstrated resilience despite facing sustained pressure, even with a numerical advantage for much of the match.
With all four teams coming from the same region, the semi-finals promise tightly contested encounters shaped by familiarity, tactical discipline, and a strong competitive edge. As the tournament enters its decisive phase, each side will be aiming to take a crucial step toward continental success.
