CAF Confederation Cup: OC Safi Make History with Maiden Group Stage Qualification

Moroccan outfit OC Safi wrote their names into the history books after advancing to the TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup group stage for the first time, edging out Tunisia’s Stade Tunisien 3–2 on aggregate despite a 2–1 loss in Radès on Saturday night.

The Hamadi Agrebi Stadium buzzed with energy as the home side chased a comeback from their 2–0 first-leg deficit. Stade Tunisien poured forward relentlessly, with Firas Ifia and Amine Allah Haboubi testing the Moroccan goalkeeper in the opening stages.

OC Safi, however, remained composed under pressure, soaking up attacks and striking on the counter when opportunities arose. Their defensive discipline frustrated the Tunisians for much of the match.

The breakthrough finally came midway through the second half when Amado Ndiaye was fouled in the box and calmly converted the resulting penalty to give the hosts hope.

But that optimism was short-lived in the 85th minute, as Anass Eddaou punished a defensive lapse to grab a crucial equalizer for Safi, effectively killing the tie.

Stade Tunisien restored their lead in stoppage time through Skander Seghaier, but it proved merely consolatory as OC Safi held firm to secure a famous qualification.

The result marks a monumental moment for the Moroccan club, who will now rub shoulders with Africa’s elite for the first time.

 Despite bowing out, Stade Tunisien earned plaudits for their spirited display and attacking verve.