Youssef Mehri etched his name into the record books on Sunday after scoring the fastest goal in the history of the CAF Confederation Cup, netting just 13 seconds into RS Berkane’s emphatic 4-0 win over Algeria’s CS Constantine.
The Moroccan forward struck early in the semi-final first leg of the 2024–25 edition of the tournament, capitalising on a clever assist from teammate Oussama Lamlioui.
Drifting to the right flank, Mehri collected the pass and fired a precise low shot beyond the reach of the goalkeeper, sending the Berkane fans into early celebration at the Stade Municipal.
It was a long-awaited breakthrough for the 25-year-old, who had gone 20 previous appearances in the competition without a goal.
The strike not only gave his side an early advantage in a crucial knockout clash, but also set a new benchmark for speed in the CAF Confederation Cup, as officially confirmed by the Confederation of African Football via their X (formerly Twitter) account.
Born in Marrakech, Mehri has steadily built his reputation in Moroccan domestic football, having previously played for HUS Agadir.
Since joining RS Berkane, he has become a pivotal part of the squad’s attacking setup. His latest goal marked his sixth of the season across all competitions, with 37 appearances to his name so far.
The timing of his first goal in the CAF Cup could hardly have been more impactful. RS Berkane, chasing a second continental title, are now firmly in control heading into the return leg in Constantine.
With a four-goal cushion, the Moroccan outfit have all but secured their place in the final, barring a dramatic turnaround in Algeria.
Mehri’s milestone adds a personal dimension to Berkane’s campaign, which has been driven by a collective desire to right the wrongs of last season.
The team narrowly missed out on continental glory in the previous edition, falling to Egypt’s Zamalek in a closely contested final.
After a 1-2 defeat in the first leg, the Moroccans managed a 1-0 victory in the return leg, but lost on aggregate.
Now, with momentum on their side and history made along the way, the Orange and Black are eyeing more than just a return to the final — they are targeting a unique domestic and continental double.
RS Berkane remain in contention for the Moroccan league title, and Mehri’s form could prove crucial as they aim to complete a remarkable season.
For Mehri, the goal represents more than a personal record. It is a moment of vindication, a symbol of perseverance and proof that persistence eventually pays off.
From chasing his first CAF Cup goal to becoming its fastest-ever scorer, his journey reflects the grit and ambition of a player determined to make an impact on the big stage.
With the second leg on the horizon and Berkane poised to progress, Youssef Mehri now has the opportunity to extend his scoring form and possibly lead his side to redemption in a final they are desperate to win.
Youssef Mehri straight into the history books. 📖
RS Berkane’s forward scores the fastest-ever #TotalEnergiesCAFCC goal. 🎩 pic.twitter.com/SRhTYXQS0A
— TotalEnergies CAFCL & CAFCC 🏆 (@CAFCLCC) April 20, 2025
