CAF Confederation Cup: Hafia FC and CR Bélouizdad share the spoils

Hafia FC were held to a 1-1 draw by CR Bélouizdad in the first leg of their CAF Confederation Cup second preliminary round clash on Sunday, after an evenly contested match in Conakry that left both sides with everything to play for in the return fixture.

The game began at a high tempo, with both teams showing attacking intent but lacking the precision needed in the final third.

Hafia FC, urged on by their home supporters, created several half-chances through quick transitions, while the Algerian visitors relied on their organisation and counter-attacking strength to stay competitive throughout the opening period.

Despite the energy on display, neither side managed to find a breakthrough before half-time.

The first 45 minutes ended goalless, with defences on top and both goalkeepers called upon to make key interventions to keep the score level.

The second half saw the contest open up as both teams pushed harder for the lead.

Hafia’s persistence paid off in the 62nd minute when Iyanga broke the deadlock, finishing confidently to give the Guinean side a deserved advantage after sustained pressure.

The goal lifted the home crowd and seemed to shift momentum firmly in Hafia’s favour.

However, CR Bélouizdad responded almost immediately. Just one minute later, Mohamed capitalised on a rare lapse in the Hafia defence to level the score at 1-1.

The quick equaliser stunned the hosts and restored balance to a game that had begun to tilt toward the Guineans.

Both sides continued to press in search of a decisive goal, but the contest ultimately settled into a tactical battle in midfield.

Hafia tried to regain their attacking rhythm, while CR Bélouizdad focused on maintaining their defensive shape and seeing out the match without further damage.

In the final stages, chances came at both ends, but neither team managed to find the composure to take advantage.

The match ended with honours even—a fair reflection of a tightly fought duel between two well-matched sides.

The 1-1 scoreline leaves the tie finely poised ahead of the return leg in Algiers, where CR Bélouizdad will look to capitalise on home advantage.

For Hafia FC, the challenge will be to replicate their intensity and discipline in what is expected to be a difficult environment in North Africa.