Cairo International Stadium will host the second leg of the captivating CAF Confederation Cup quarter-final tie on Wednesday, as Egyptian powerhouse and current titleholders Zamalek lock horns with South African representatives and tournament debutants Stellenbosch.
First Leg
Stellenbosch FC face a daunting challenge as they travel to Cairo to take on Egyptian giants Zamalek in the second leg of the CAF Confederation Cup quarterfinal. After a hard-fought 0-0 draw in the first leg at Cape Town’s DHL Stadium on April 2, the tie remains finely poised, with the up-and-coming Stellies just a scoring draw away from a historic first continental semi-final.
The Western-Cape outfit has demonstrated a resolute defensive structure throughout the campaign, as seen by Sage Stephens four clean sheets from six tournament appearances thus far. Add their sharp counter-attacking game and we may very well see Barker & Co unsettle their Egyptian adversaries. Their ability to remain composed under pressure and seize opportunities in transitional play could turn the tide in their favour.
However, they’ll need to overcome the reigning champions, known as the White Knights, in the intimidating atmosphere of the Cairo International Stadium. Zamalek’s home advantage and attacking talent make them favorites, but Stellenbosch’s defensive solidity and counter-attacking threat could spring a surprise.
What they said
Stellenbosch coach: “The main objective was always to go to Cairo having a chance,” Barker said post-match.
“We didn’t want to go sort of dead and buried. I think, not conceding the away goal, I believe the pressure shifts to Zamalek.” He added, “With good preparation, now we know what we know, good analysis, and a really good game plan, we plan to get that goal. Even if they score one, we still only have to score one.”
Zamalek coach Jose Peseiro, while not displeased with the draw, acknowledged his team’s struggles in attack. “In the defensive process, we had a good game. In the offensive process, we did not,” he admitted.
“I’m not sad because you draw 0-0, it’s not bad in a way, but I’m not happy because I think we must do more.” Peseiro, who took charge of Zamalek in February, emphasized the need for improvement: “I believe, at home, we can beat Stellenbosch. We must improve our offensive process, our quality, because we can do it.”
How to watch
The match is scheduled to kick-off at 18:00 on Wednesday, 09 April 2025 and will be carried live on the public broadcaster’s radio stations for commentary. The match will be broadcast live on SuperSport channel 204 as well as SABC Sport and can also be streamed on Showmax and SABC plus.
Cairo International Stadium
The 75 000 seater stadium will host the clash between Zamalek and Stellenbosch. Located in Nasr City, Cairo, the stadium was initially constructed in 1960 but underwent renovations in 2005 and 2019 to modernize its facilities.
The stadium is not the permanent home of any club team, but it is frequently used for high-profile matches by Cairo-based clubs like Al Ahly and Zamalek. Furthermore, Cairo International Stadium has hosted numerous significant events, including the African Cup of Nations and matches for the Egypt national football team.
Betting odds (supplied by Hollywoodbets)
To win (90 min)
Zamalek 1/3 | Draw 31/10 | Stellenbosch 8/1
A win or a scoring draw (e.g., 1-1) would see Stellenbosch advance due to the away goals rule, while Zamalek need a victory to defend their title and progress.
The Egyptian side’s pedigree is undeniable, five CAF Champions League titles and two Confederation Cup crowns, but Stellenbosch have proven they’re no pushovers, having earned their place among Africa’s elite in their debut campaign.
Having made it thus far in the competition, I can’t write Stellenbosch off. At 100/1, back Zamalek at Half Time but Stellenbosch at Full Time!