Stellenbosch and Zamalek played out a goalless draw in the first leg of their TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup quarter-final at DHL Cape Town Stadium on Wednesday.
Despite a lively atmosphere and flashes of attacking intent from both sides, neither team could find the breakthrough in a tightly contested encounter.
Stellenbosch, making their debut in the knockout stages of a continental competition, gave a spirited performance and had chances to snatch a home win.
Andre de Jong came closest for the South African side in the 72nd minute, but his header flew narrowly over the bar after a well-placed cross from Fawaaz Basadien.
Earlier, Ismaël Touré had also tested Zamalek goalkeeper Mohamed Awad with a strong header that was saved low to the corner.
Zamalek, five-time CAF Champions League winners and one of the competition’s favourites, controlled possession for large spells but struggled to break down Stellenbosch’s well-organised back five.
The Egyptians came closest when Naser Mansy’s header forced a fine save from Sage Stephens, and Mostafa Shalaby fired just over late in the first half.
There was no shortage of commitment from either side, with the game littered with fouls and stoppages.
Both teams made several substitutions in the second half in search of a winner, but the stalemate ensures the tie will be decided in Cairo next week.
Zamalek will fancy their chances at home, but Stellenbosch showed enough resilience and attacking promise to suggest they could still spring a surprise in the return leg.
SOURCED FROM CAFONLINE.
