Olympique Safi Revives Continental Campaign with Gritty Away Triumph
Morocco’s Olympique Safi breathed new life into their CAF Confederation Cup journey on Sunday, securing a pivotal 2-1 victory against FC San Pédro on Ivorian soil. This Group A win at the Stade Laurent Pokou provides a massive boost to their knockout stage aspirations, shifting the momentum in their favor as the group stage intensifies.
The match began with a stunning sequence as the visitors found the back of the net just 24 seconds after kickoff. Following a swift attacking move down the right flank, Soulaimane El Bouchqali delivered a low cross that bypassed the defense, allowing Imad Khannouss to finish clinically from point-blank range.
FC San Pédro refused to be rattled by the early deficit and fought their way back into the contest with a well-worked team goal. Playmaker Issouf Dosso and Abi Kassi combined to release Karamoko Aboubakar, who leveled the score with an impressive strike into the top corner. However, the hosts’ focus wavered shortly after finding the equalizer. Just four minutes later, Khannouss was brought down in the penalty area, resulting in a spot-kick for the visitors. Experienced captain Sofian El Moudane stepped up and calmly sent the goalkeeper the wrong way to restore the Moroccan lead before the break.
The second half was a test of endurance and discipline for Olympique Safi. The Ivorian side applied significant pressure in search of another equalizer, with young midfielder Moussa Koné coming closest in the 68th minute, only to see his effort deflected wide. Despite the relentless attacks from the home side, the Moroccan defense remained organized and resilient until the final whistle.
This result creates a fascinating dynamic in Group A. While Algeria’s USM Alger remains dominant at the top with a perfect record of nine points from three matches, Olympique Safi has now moved into a strong position to challenge for the second qualifying spot. FC San Pédro now faces a daunting task as the two teams prepare for a rematch in Morocco next week, where the Ivorian club must secure a result to keep their hopes of advancing alive.
