CAF Stands Firm: RS Berkane Secured in CAF Cup Final Against Zamalek

Thursday 02 May 2024 - 15:40

In a resolute stance, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) Clubs Committee has reaffirmed Renaissance Sportive de Berkane's qualification for the CAF Cup final, following the forfeiture of their Algerian opponents, USM Alger. The decision, announced on Wednesday, brings closure to the contentious semi-final clash between the two sides.

According to a communiqué from the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF), they received a copy of the CAF Clubs Committee's ruling on Thursday, officially confirming RS Berkane's progression to the 2023-2024 CAF Cup final. The Committee's unanimous decision was to sanction USM Alger with a 0-3 forfeit, while also referring the matter to the Disciplinary Jury for potential additional sanctions.

The CAF's unwavering stance sets the stage for an enthralling final showdown between RS Berkane and Egyptian giants Zamalek. The first leg of the final will take place on May 12th in Berkane, with the return leg scheduled for May 19th in Cairo.

As the dust settles on the heated semi-final controversy, RS Berkane now sets their sights on the ultimate prize – the CAF Cup trophy. The Moroccan club, buoyed by the CAF's resolute backing, will undoubtedly relish the opportunity to etch their name in continental history on the grandest of stages.

For their part, Zamalek, the Egyptian heavyweights, will be eager to spoil the Moroccan party and claim their sixth CAF Cup title. With both sides boasting rich histories and fervent support, the stage is set for an epic continental clash that will captivate football fans across Africa and beyond.

As the countdown to the final begins, the CAF's unwavering stance underscores the governing body's commitment to upholding the integrity of its competitions. The decision to uphold RS Berkane's qualification, while potentially unpopular in certain quarters, sends a strong message about the organization's dedication to fairness and adherence to its regulations.

With the CAF Cup final now firmly on the horizon, football enthusiasts can anticipate a thrilling spectacle as two formidable teams battle for continental supremacy, with the CAF's decisive action ensuring that the contest will be decided on the pitch, in the true spirit of sportsmanship and fair play.