ES Sétif Make History with First-Ever CAF Super Cup Triumph
BBC-style rewrite | Approx. 400 words
ES Sétif etched their name in African football history on Saturday, becoming the first Algerian club to win the CAF Super Cup after edging Egyptian giants Al Ahly in a dramatic penalty shootout (1-1, 6-5 pens).
Having lifted the CAF Champions League title just months earlier, the Algerian side added another prestigious continental trophy to their collection. The tightly contested match, played in Blida’s Mustapha Tchaker Stadium, saw goals from Abdelmalek Ziaya (70′) and Emad Meteab (90+3′) before the game was decided from the spot.
Though technically below expectations, the match delivered tension and drama. Al Ahly, who won the CAF Confederation Cup, pressed hard throughout but were met by a determined ES Sétif side that refused to yield under pressure — even after conceding a heartbreaking equaliser in stoppage time.
Joy and pride from the players
Speaking to APS after the victory, ES Sétif’s players expressed their elation and pride at the achievement.
“Words fail me,” said midfielder Mourad Delhoum. “Winning a second continental trophy in such a short span, and against a powerhouse like Al Ahly, is not something everyone gets to experience. It was tough, but we rose to the challenge. I hope this is just the beginning.”
El Hadi Belameiri, another key figure in the midfield, added: “We had no room for error playing at home in front of our supporters. It was a huge challenge, but we dedicate this win to all Algerians and especially to our fans in Sétif.”
Captain Farid Mellouli echoed the sentiment: “I’m thrilled. It wasn’t easy against such a seasoned side. We were focused and serious. Luck may have played its part, but we earned this.”
Striker Ahmed Gasmi emphasised the significance of the win: “Al Ahly’s experience made this a difficult game, especially after they equalised late on. But we kept our composure and delivered. This is for our supporters and the entire nation.”
Defender Kheireddine Aroussi summed up the team’s pride: “It’s a historic win — the first for any Algerian club in this competition. We’ve shown that ES Sétif is now a major force in African football.”
With the victory, ES Sétif not only claim continental silverware but send a powerful message about their growing stature in African football.
