Algerian outfit CR Belouizdad produced a commanding performance to beat Stellenbosch FC 2–0, extending their strong start in the CAF Confederation Cup group stage.
The match, held Nelson Mandela Stadium, Baraki, Algiers saw Belouizdad edged past their opponent from South Africa in the third round of the group stage on Sunday night.
The Algerian side took control early and never looked back, dominating possession and creating the better scoring opportunities throughout the match.
The deadlock was broken after just five minutes into the match through Algeria international Abdennour Belhocini, capitalising on a well-worked attack that ended with a precise finish. The home crowd erupted as the hosts took charge of the contest. From that point on, Belouizdad controlled the rhythm of the game, frustrating Stellenbosch’s attempts to build sustained attacks.
Deep into stoppage time, the host fired home their second goal of the match to seal victory through Farid El Melali. The hosts continued to apply pressure but were unable to add a third, while Stellenbosch, limited in chances, struggled to create clear opportunities.
Defensively, Belouizdad were solid, maintaining their clean sheet and showing resilience when called upon. Stellenbosch, for their part, battled hard but ultimately lacked the attacking spark needed to trouble their opponents in a tightly contested group fixture.
The win strengthens Belouizdad, position in Group C and keeps them firmly in the race for qualification to the knockout stages, while Stellenbosch FC remain competitive but will need to regroup quickly if they are to bounce back in their next group matches.
Currently, CR Belouizdad sit top of Group C with six points, while Stellenbosch and Singiba Black Stars occupy second and third spot with four points each. AS Otoho are bottom on the table with just three points after three games.
