CAF Champions League: ES Sétif Edge Past Raja, But Coach Madoui Signals Exit
ES Sétif secured a dramatic passage to the group stage of the CAF Champions League after a tense penalty shootout victory over Morocco’s Raja Casablanca, despite nearly throwing away a two-goal lead. But while the Algerian side celebrated progression, the future of head coach Kheireddine Madoui now hangs in the balance.
Playing at home, Entente Sétif seemed on course for a comfortable night after racing to a 2-0 lead early in the second half. However, Raja mounted a strong comeback, eventually levelling the tie and forcing the contest into a shootout. Goalkeeper Sofiane Khedairia emerged as the hero, saving the first two Moroccan spot-kicks and securing Sétif’s place in the next round.
Speaking after the match, coach Madoui acknowledged his side’s drop in performance after a strong start, but insisted the qualification was deserved.
“We got into the game quickly. We scored early on, which disrupted the opponent,” Madoui told Le Buteur. “We had a good first half that we managed well. In the second half, we pulled back and Raja came back into the game. The penalty they were awarded was deserved. We were luckier in the shootout—we didn’t miss a beat.”
Despite the success, Madoui’s post-match comments hinted at deeper frustrations. In a surprising turn, the coach reportedly informed club president Hassan Hammar of his decision to step down.
“I don’t want to be responsible for the team’s problems, that’s why I’ve decided to step down as coach. Find another coach,” Madoui reportedly said, according to Le Buteur.
This is not the first time the coach has expressed his intention to resign after a major result. However, this time the reasons appear more personal. Madoui is said to be increasingly disheartened by criticism from a section of the club’s fanbase, especially after home disappointments. The pressure, he feels, has become untenable.
ES Sétif now face a delicate situation: they’ve advanced to the Champions League group stage, but uncertainty looms over the leadership of the team. Whether Madoui’s decision is final or a heat-of-the-moment reaction remains to be seen, but the club’s next steps will be closely watched.
