Zamalek on brink of historic African record as Confederation Cup final awaits

Zamalek stands on the verge of setting a new milestone in African club football as it prepares to host Algerian side CR Belouizdad in the second leg of the CAF Confederation Cup semi-final at Cairo Stadium on Friday at 6 pm.

The Egyptian giants carry a slim but valuable advantage into the decisive clash after securing a 1-0 away victory in the first leg at Nelson Mandela Stadium last week.

That result leaves Zamalek needing only a draw—or another win—to book a place in the final for the third time in its history.

Beyond qualification, the match carries wider historical significance. Progression would see Zamalek move clear of DR Congo’s TP Mazembe in the all-time ranking for appearances in African club competition finals, across both the CAF Champions League and Confederation Cup. Both clubs are currently level with 10 final appearances each.

Al Ahly remains the continent’s most successful side in terms of final appearances, having reached 18 finals—17 in the CAF Champions League and one in the Confederation Cup. Zamalek and TP Mazembe follow closely behind on 10 apiece.

A place in the final would give Zamalek its 11th appearance across Africa’s premier club competitions, moving it ahead of Mazembe and into sole second place on the all-time list.

Historically, Zamalek has featured in eight CAF Champions League finals, winning five titles, while it has also reached the Confederation Cup final twice—lifting the trophy on both occasions.

Elsewhere in the continental rankings, Esperance of Tunisia sits fourth with nine final appearances, followed by Moroccan clubs Wydad Casablanca and Raja Casablanca with six each.

Tunisian sides Étoile du Sahel and CS Sfaxien have also made their mark, with six and five final appearances respectively.