CAF Confederation Cup: ASO Chlef Exit After Narrow Defeat to Club Africain
ASO Chlef’s journey in the CAF Confederation Cup has come to an end after a narrow 1-0 defeat to Club Africain in the second leg of their round of 16 tie at the Radès Stadium in Tunis. The Algerian side, who had drawn 1-1 at home in the first leg, were undone by a defensive lapse late in the first half.
The decisive moment came in the 43rd minute when Imed Menyaoui capitalised on a miscue in the Chlef defence to slot home what would ultimately be the only goal of the match.
Despite the elimination, ASO Chlef head coach Meziane Benchouia praised his team’s spirit and lamented the circumstances they faced.
“We played against the leaders of the Tunisian league, and despite that, we caused them many problems,” Benchouia told Le Buteur. “We were short on attackers, which explains our limited offensive performance. We had several absences, but we still managed to create chances late in the match. Unfortunately, we couldn’t convert them, and I feel the referee missed a few key decisions in our favour.”
While disappointed to fall just short of the group stage, ASO Chlef exit the competition with honour, having matched one of North Africa’s strongest sides over two legs. The focus now turns to domestic survival, with four crucial league fixtures remaining as the club battles to avoid relegation from the Algerian top flight.
“We wanted to progress to the next round, but under these conditions, it’s wiser to now concentrate on the league,” Benchouia added. “Our priority is to stay in Ligue 1.”
With the CAF Cup campaign over, ASO Chlef must regroup quickly as they prepare for a tense end to the domestic season—one that could determine the club’s short-term future.
