Stellenbosch FC and Zamalek Play Out Goalless Draw in CAF Confederation Cup Quarter-Final First Leg

Stellenbosch FC and Egyptian giants Zamalek battled to a 0-0 stalemate in the first leg of their CAF Confederation Cup quarter-final clash on Wednesday afternoon. Despite both teams showing moments of promise, neither side managed to break the deadlock at the Danie Craven Stadium.

Head coach Steve Barker made four changes to his Stellenbosch lineup following their defeat to Magesi FC. Kazie Enyinnaya, Fawaaz Basadien, Genino Palace, and Ashley Cupido were recalled to the starting eleven, hoping to inject fresh energy into the team.

The match began at a cautious pace, with both teams looking to settle into a rhythm. Zamalek gradually gained momentum and found themselves in promising positions, but wasteful finishing prevented them from taking the lead. Stellenbosch, on the other hand, held their shape well and looked to capitalize on counterattacks.

As halftime approached, Cupido attempted to break the deadlock with an ambitious effort from close range, but his shot sailed off target. With neither team able to create clear-cut chances in the opening 45 minutes, the contest remained finely poised.

Both sides opted to continue with their initial starting line-ups as the second half commenced. Stellenbosch showed attacking intent, with Cupido, Palace, Devon Titus, and Andre De Jong all testing the Zamalek defense. However, the visitors remained disciplined at the back and limited Stellenbosch’s ability to create meaningful opportunities.

In a bid to add fresh legs, Barker introduced Ibraheem Jabaar midway through the second half, replacing the energetic Palace in midfield. Zamalek, meanwhile, grew more effective in wide areas and began delivering dangerous balls into the box.

The North African side nearly snatched a late winner in the final ten minutes when Ahmed Sayed curled in a cross from the right, only for goalkeeper Sage Stephens to react quickly and clear the danger. Moments later, Stephens produced a crucial point-blank save to deny Nasser Mansi from close range, ensuring Stellenbosch held on for the draw.

Despite late pressure from Zamalek, Stellenbosch maintained their defensive discipline and secured a hard-fought stalemate. The second leg is set to take place next Wednesday in Cairo, where Stellenbosch will face a challenging test against the White Knights on their home turf.

Confirmed Line-ups:

Stellenbosch FC: Stephens, Basadien, Toure, Enyinnaya, Nduli, Khiba, Moloisane, Palace, Titus, De Jong, Cupido
Subs: Masuluke, Mdaka, Lekoloane, Phili, Butsaka, Barns, Mcaba, Jabaar, Nku

Zamalek: Awad, El Wensh, Abdelmaguid, Moussaddaq, Fatou, Gaber, Dunga, Shehata, Zizou, Shalaby, Jaziri
Subs: Sobhi, Hossam, El Zenary, Hamdy, Gehad, Mahmoud, Gaafar, Maher, Mansy

With everything still to play for in the return leg, Stellenbosch will need a composed and resilient performance to stand a chance of progressing to the semi-finals.