The Confederation of African Football has officially confirmed the schedule for Zamalek SC’s upcoming Confederation Cup semi-final matches against CR Belouizdad, providing clarity on dates and venues for both legs of the crucial tie.
According to an official communication sent to Zamalek, the first leg will be played on Friday, April 10, with kick-off set for 21:00 local time at the Nelson Mandela Stadium. The return leg is scheduled a week later, on Friday, April 17, at 18:00 local time at Cairo International Stadium.
CAF approves Zamalek request
Zamalek’s management had previously approached CAF with a request regarding the scheduling of the second leg. The Egyptian club sought to have the return fixture played specifically on April 17, a request that has now been formally approved by the governing body.
The confirmation of the dates allows both teams to finalise preparations for what is expected to be a closely contested semi-final, as they aim for a place in the final of Africa’s second-tier club competition.
Road to the semi-finals
Zamalek secured their place in the last four after overcoming a challenging quarter-final tie against Congolese side Otoho. The first leg of that encounter ended in a 1-1 draw, leaving the tie finely balanced ahead of the return fixture.
In the decisive second leg, Zamalek produced a narrow but vital 2-1 victory, ensuring progression to the semi-finals. The result underlined the team’s resilience and ability to deliver under pressure in continental competition.
CR Belouizdad, meanwhile, arrive at this stage as one of Algeria’s leading clubs, setting up a North African clash that is expected to draw significant attention across the continent.
High stakes in continental campaign
With both teams now aware of the schedule, attention turns to tactical preparations and squad readiness. The timing of the fixtures—particularly the relatively short interval between the two legs—could play a key role in determining the outcome of the tie.
For Zamalek, hosting the second leg in Cairo may offer a potential advantage, as they look to capitalise on home support at a decisive stage of the competition. However, navigating the away fixture in Algeria will be equally crucial, as a positive result in the first leg could set the tone for the return encounter.
The announcement from CAF marks a significant step in the build-up to the semi-finals, with both clubs now focusing on securing a place in the final of the Confederation Cup.
