Constantine face daunting task against rampant Berkane

CS Constantine must produce one of the greatest comebacks in TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup history when they host Morocco’s RS Berkane on Sunday, trailing 4-0 from the first leg.

The Algerian side were stunned last weekend as Berkane, chasing a third CAF Confederation Cup crown, dismantled them with a dominant performance at home.

Early goals from Youssef Mehri and Paul Bassène set the tone, before Oussama Lamlaoui added two more after the break to all but seal the tie.

Now, coach Kheireddine Madoui faces a monumental challenge to inspire belief among his players and supporters ahead of the return leg at the Mohamed Hamlaoui Stadium.

Despite the odds, Madoui has called on his players to "believe in the impossible" and deliver a spirited performance for the fans.

Constantine’s recent form offers little encouragement, with no wins in their last four matches across all competitions.

They must not only find a way past a resilient Berkane defence but also avoid conceding, with the visitors boasting one of the best defensive records in this season’s competition.

Berkane, meanwhile, arrive in Algeria in superb form, having won four of their last five Confederation Cup matches. Led by the influential Mehri and Lamlaoui, they carry a cutting edge that has made them favourites to reach a second consecutive final.

A quick start will be crucial for Constantine if they are to mount any form of comeback. They must score early to unsettle Berkane and ignite hope among their passionate home crowd.

However, another Berkane goal would leave the Algerians needing six — a near-impossible mountain to climb.

The Moroccan side have proven themselves seasoned campaigners at this stage, lifting the CAF Confederation Cup in 2020 and 2022, and look well on course to add a third title.

Sunday’s clash in Constantine will be a true test of resilience, pride, and belief for the home side — but Berkane are firmly in control as they eye another shot at continental glory.

Kick-off is set for 18:00 local time (17:00 GMT).