The third round of the Confederation Cup group stage unfolded on Sunday, delivering definitive outcomes as three clubs emerged unscathed, amassing a perfect nine out of nine points available.
In Group A, USM Algiers claimed a significant victory with Malian Abdoulaye Kanou’s decisive goal at the hour mark (65th minute), edging out Future FC 1-0.
The reigning champions maintain their commanding lead in the group, while Egyptian contenders retain their second-place spot, three points ahead of Al-Hilal Benghazi, who clinched a 2-1 win over South Africa’s SuperSport, currently sitting at the bottom with no points.
Group B witnessed Zamalek’s 1-0 triumph against Angolan side Sagrada Esperança. The group’s second spot is now occupied by the surprising Abu Salim from Libya, handing a near-elimination blow to Guinea’s SOAR Coyah with a 1-0 defeat.
Meanwhile, in Group D, RS Berkane showcased a flawless performance securing a 2-0 victory against the Congolese Diables Noirs, courtesy of goals by Youssef Zghoudi (28th minute) and Mohamed El Morabit (54th minute).
Diables Noirs face an uphill battle with three defeats in three matches, leaving them on the brink of elimination, despite Sekhukhune and Stade Malien sharing a goalless draw, maintaining a four-point lead over them.
🚨BUUUUUUUUUT DE ABDOULAYE KANOU 🇲🇱 !!!!!!!!
USM ALGER 🇩🇿 1-0 MODERN FUTURE FC 🇪🇬 pic.twitter.com/a0njP1BXxC
— Algérie_Foot🇩🇿 (@algeriefoot213) December 10, 2023
In a significant upset, Group C saw the previously successful African Club suffer a defeat in Nigeria against Rivers United (1-0). This loss puts the Tunisian team on equal footing with victorious Dreams FC from Ghana, who triumphed 3-2 against Academica Lobito, creating a three-way tie at the top with six points each.
The tight standings promise an intense battle in the upcoming fixtures, shaping up a congested leaderboard.
The third round showcased thrilling clashes across groups, setting the stage for heightened competition and unpredictable outcomes as teams brace themselves for the fourth round on December 20th.
