CAF Confederation Cup: Zamalek triumphs over AS Otoho to reach semifinals

Egyptian giants Zamalek SC have booked their place in the CAF Confederation Cup semifinals after securing a 2-1 home victory against AS Otoho.

The win at the Cairo International Stadium completed a 3-2 aggregate success following a 1-1 draw in the first leg in Congo.

The second-leg clash saw Zamalek dominate possession and control the tempo of the game, with the hosts converting their opportunities to gain a crucial advantage on aggregate. AS Otoho fought hard and created several chances, but ultimately were unable to overturn the deficit from the first encounter.

Zamalek made their home advantage count, firing home two crucial goals in the 17^th and 24^th minute marks through Hossam Abdelmaguid and Oday Dabbagh.

Despite pulling one back in the 83^rd-minute, the Congolese outfit could not overturn the scores, propelling Zamalek to semifinal spot.

Zamalek’s combined performance over the two legs demonstrated tactical discipline, attacking efficiency, and resilience, confirming their status as one of Africa’s elite clubs.

The victory sets up a high-stakes semifinal, where Zamalek will aim to continue their strong run and challenge for a place in the Confederation Cup final.

For AS Otoho, the defeat marks the end of a commendable campaign in which they showed determination and competitiveness, but fell just short of advancing to the latter stages of the tournament.

With the semifinals now confirmed, Zamalek turn their focus to the next challenge, ready to leverage home advantage and continental experience as they chase another CAF trophy.