The anticipation for the CAF Cup quarter-finals intensified as the Confederation of African Football (CAF) unveiled the matchups for the next phase of the competition, often dubbed as the African equivalent of the Europa League.
Defending champions USM Alger were drawn against Rivers United from Nigeria, setting the stage for a thrilling encounter between the two sides.
With an impressive record of securing 13 points out of a possible 18 during the group stage, the Algerian outfit emerges as the clear favorites against their Nigerian counterparts, who finished second in their group and faced a daunting defeat in their recent trip to North Africa, succumbing to a 3-0 loss against the African Club in Tunisia last December.
Meanwhile, RS Berkane, boasting a two-time championship title in the competition, is set to face off against Abu Salim in a highly anticipated clash between two North African powerhouses.
Notably, Abu Salim, hailing from Libya, will have the unique circumstance of “hosting” the match in Algeria, specifically in Annaba, presenting an intriguing dynamic to the fixture.
Despite Abu Salim’s valiant efforts in the group stage, winning three out of six matches, they face an uphill battle against the formidable Moroccans, who are widely regarded as the frontrunners.
The prospect of a potential semi-final showdown between USM Alger and RS Berkane looms large, provided both teams emerge victorious in their respective quarter-final clashes.
Such a matchup would undoubtedly captivate football enthusiasts, promising an intense battle between two formidable contenders for the CAF Cup title.
As the stage is set for the quarter-finals to unfold, football fans eagerly await the thrilling action and dramatic moments that are synonymous with African football competitions.
With each team vying for supremacy, the quarter-finals are poised to deliver exhilarating encounters and unforgettable moments on the continental stage.
8 teams, 8 different routes, 1 final destination in sight. 🏆 #TotalEnergiesCAFCC pic.twitter.com/3CzA2NYgag
— TotalEnergiesCAFCL & TotalEnergiesCAFCC 🏆 (@CAFCLCC) March 12, 2024
