RS Berkane and CS Constantine set sights on TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup Final

As the race for continental glory tightens, the second semi-final of the TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup pits two North African forces with very different stories but equally burning ambitions.

RS Berkane, the seasoned Moroccan campaigners with a strong continental pedigree, are up against CS Constantine, the Algerian side looking to shatter expectations and announce their return to the big time.

It’s not just a semi-final — it’s a showdown of tradition, strategy, and regional pride, set against a backdrop of fierce North African rivalries and a place in the final hanging delicately in the balance.

RS Berkane: Kings of the Confederation Cup

When it comes to the TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup, few names carry as much recent weight as RS Berkane. Champions in 2020 and 2022, the Moroccans have become the benchmark for consistency and tactical acumen in this competition.

This season, their march to the semi-finals has been defined by resilience and tournament know-how. Whether it's navigating tight group stage affairs or managing tense knockout ties, Berkane have found ways to win — even when not at their sparkling best.

Guided by a system that emphasizes compact defending, quick ball progression, and lethal wide play, they’ve become masters at controlling the tempo, especially in the big moments. In the quarter-finals, they dispatched USM Alger with calm confidence, blending experience with just enough flair to impose their will.

Now, the orange tide rolls into the semis — determined to return to a final stage they know well and lift the trophy for a third time in five seasons.

CS Constantine: The Comeback Campaign

While Berkane arrive as one of the favourites, CS Constantine are playing the role of disruptors — and playing it very well. The Algerians, who have flown under the radar this campaign, have steadily built momentum and belief in equal measure.

Their path to the semi-finals included a spirited quarter-final display, where they edged out Stade Malien with tenacity and a belief that this might just be their year. Unlike Berkane, Constantine’s continental history is not soaked in silverware — but what they lack in pedigree, they more than make up for in passion, pressing, and purpose.

Built on the back of a solid domestic campaign, Constantine are a side that thrives on high-intensity football, led by a midfield that doesn’t stop running and a frontline that loves to exploit space. Their hunger is palpable. For them, this semi-final isn’t just a tie — it’s a statement that they are ready to step into the spotlight.

The North African Derby Feel

Though not traditional rivals, the North African dynamic adds an extra layer of intensity to this clash. Games between Algerian and Moroccan clubs are often fiercely contested, not just tactically, but emotionally. Pride is on the line. Fans expect fire and fireworks.

The first leg, set to be played in Algeria, offers CS Constantine a vital opportunity to strike first — because going to Berkane for the return leg without an advantage is a daunting prospect for any team.

All Roads Lead to Destiny

With Stellenbosch FC and Simba SC facing off in the other semi-final, the door is wide open for one of these North African clubs to claim a spot in the final — and perhaps lift the trophy.

For RS Berkane, this is familiar terrain, but a third title would cement their status as modern TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup royalty.