CR Belouizdad sealed their place in the CAF Confederation Cup quarter-finals with a hard-fought 1-0 away win over Singida Black Stars on Sunday evening.
An early moment of quality proved decisive as the Algerian side showed composure and resilience to see out the result under sustained pressure.
The breakthrough came as early as the third minute when Abdennour Belhocini unleashed a superb long-range strike that found the back of the net, giving Belouizdad the perfect start. The goal allowed the visitors to settle into a disciplined display as Singida attempted to respond.
The contest grew increasingly tense in the second half, with both sides eventually reduced to ten men. Belouizdad’s Mohamed Hammouda was sent off on the hour mark after picking up a second yellow card, shifting the momentum in favour of the hosts.
Singida Black Stars continued to press and were also reduced to ten players deep into stoppage time when Abdulmalik Zakaria received his second booking.
Singida threw everything forward in the closing stages, creating several late chances through Khalid Aucho and Elvis Rupia. However, Belouizdad goalkeeper Farid Chaâl stood firm, producing a series of vital saves to keep his side ahead.
Despite intense pressure and eight minutes of added time, CR Belouizdad held their nerve to claim all three points and confirm their progression to the quarter-finals of the competition.
