Zamalek holds firm in CAF Cup Quarterfinal stalemate

Egypt’s Zamalek secured a cautious but valuable result in their CAF Confederation Cup quarterfinal first leg, grinding out a 0-0 draw against South Africa’s Stellenbosch FC on Wednesday. Despite enjoying spells of possession and creating half-chances, the visitors failed to break down a resilient defense, while remaining alert to counterattacks from a surprise package of this year’s competition.

The stalemate leaves the tie finely balanced, but Zamalek—five-time African champions—will fancy their chances in next week’s return leg on home soil in Cairo. Stellenbosch, one of the tournament’s underdog success stories, showed defensive discipline but lacked a cutting edge to capitalize on their occasional threats.

With no away goals rule in effect, the pressure now shifts to the second leg, where Zamalek’s experience could prove decisive. The Egyptian giants remain slight favorites, but Stellenbosch’s compact organization ensures an intriguing showdown awaits.