Belouizdad captain Benghit: ‘We must write a new chapter for Belouizdad against Zamalek’

CR Belouizdad captain Abdelraouf Benghit says his side are ready to embrace the challenge of facing Egyptian giants Zamalek as they look to take a major step towards a historic TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup final.

The Algerian club host Zamalek in the first leg of their semi-final tie at the Nelson Mandela Stadium in Algiers on Saturday, aiming to secure a positive result before the return match in Cairo.

Benghit acknowledged the strength and experience of their opponents but insisted the outcome would be decided on the pitch, with determination and performance key to his team’s chances.

He also highlighted the significance of reaching the semi-finals for the first time in 30 years, describing it as a major milestone that has given the squad added motivation.

In an exclusive interview with CAFonline.com, Benghit spoke about preparations, expectations and the importance of the occasion.

CAFonline.com: How are your preparations going for the CAF Confederation Cup semi-final?

Abdelraouf Benghit: Preparations are going well, with great focus from all the players and coaching staff. We understand the responsibility on our shoulders, and we are working hard in training to be ready for this important match and to represent Algeria and CR Belouizdad in the best possible way.

CR Belouizdad are playing in the semi-finals for the first time in 30 years. What does that mean to you?

This is a very important achievement for the club, the supporters and everyone connected to the team. Reaching this stage after such a long time gives us extra motivation to continue with determination. We are aware of the responsibility to write a new chapter in the history of CR Belouizdad, and it is a great honour for us as players.

How important is this competition for you as players?

This match is very important because it allows us to show our quality on the continental stage and bring pride to Algerian football. Matches like this are decided by small details and require high concentration, and we are ready to give a strong performance.

You will face Zamalek, a team with strong continental pedigree. What are your thoughts?

Zamalek is a great team with a strong history, and we respect them. But in matches like these, history does not decide the result — performance on the pitch does. We will give everything to achieve a positive result and keep our chances of reaching the final alive.

As captain, what message do you have for your teammates?

My message is to play with team spirit, strong character and full concentration. This is a big opportunity for all of us, and we must fight together for the club, the fans and our shared ambition.

What would you like to say to the fans?

Our fans are our biggest strength. We promise to give everything on the pitch to make them proud and to represent the club’s colours with honour. Their support motivates us and pushes us to perform at our best.

Belouizdad will look to make home advantage count as they chase a place in the final, with Benghit and his teammates determined to turn a historic opportunity into a defining moment for the club.