What Is 2024 CAF Confederation Cup final

Overview

The 2024 CAF Confederation Cup final marked the culmination of Africa’s premier secondary club football competition, organized annually by the Confederation of African Football (CAF). This year’s showdown featured DR Congo’s TP Mazembe and Morocco’s RS Berkane, both historically strong continental sides seeking continental glory.

The final was a tightly contested affair, ultimately decided by a single goal. RS Berkane claimed their second title in the tournament’s history, having previously won in 2020, while TP Mazembe missed the chance to add a second trophy after their 2016 triumph.

• RS Berkane won 1–0, with the decisive goal scored in the 78th minute by Moroccan forward Ayoub El Kaabi.
• The match was held at Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, Nigeria, a neutral venue selected by CAF.
• Attendance reached approximately 25,000 spectators, with strong support from both visiting fanbases.
• TP Mazembe advanced to the final after eliminating Al Ahly Tripoli in the semifinals, winning 3–2 on aggregate.
• RS Berkane progressed by defeating Algeria’s CR Belouizdad 4–2 on aggregate in the semifinal round.

How It Works

The CAF Confederation Cup is structured as a knockout competition with group stages preceding the knockout rounds, featuring 16 teams from across Africa. Clubs qualify based on domestic cup performance or league placement, depending on their national federation’s ranking.

• Qualification: Teams earn entry via national cup wins or top-tier league finishes, with 54 CAF member associations eligible. Each country receives one or two slots based on CAF coefficients.
• Group Stage: 16 teams are divided into four groups of four; the winners and runners-up advance to the quarterfinals.
• Knockout Format: Quarterfinals, semifinals, and the final are played over two legs, home and away, with the final hosted at a neutral venue.
• Final Host: CAF selects a neutral country to host the final; Nigeria was chosen for 2024 after a competitive bidding process.
• Eligibility: Clubs that finish second or third in their domestic leagues may enter, provided they haven’t qualified for the CAF Champions League.
• Trophy and Prize: The winners receive $1.5 million in prize money and qualify for the CAF Super Cup against the Champions League winner.

Comparison at a Glance

Below is a comparison of the 2024 finalists across key performance metrics and historical achievements:

The table highlights RS Berkane’s efficiency in front of goal and their growing reputation in African club football. TP Mazembe, despite their continental pedigree, struggled to convert chances in the final, reflecting a broader trend of declining scoring output in knockout stages.

Why It Matters

The 2024 CAF Confederation Cup final holds significant implications for African club football, showcasing the rising competitiveness beyond traditional powerhouses. The victory reinforces Morocco’s growing influence in CAF tournaments, with RS Berkane becoming the first Moroccan side to win the Confederation Cup twice.

• Regional dominance: Moroccan clubs have now won three of the last five Confederation Cups, signaling a shift in African football dynamics.
• Financial rewards: RS Berkane earned $1.5 million, a substantial sum that boosts club infrastructure and player recruitment in domestic leagues.
• Player development: Performances in CAF tournaments elevate player profiles, with El Kaabi attracting interest from European clubs.
• CAF Super Cup qualification: RS Berkane will face Al Ahly, the 2024 Champions League winners, in September 2024.
• Grassroots impact: Success inspires youth academies in Berkane and across Morocco, increasing investment in local football programs.
• Neutral hosting: Nigeria’s role as host strengthens its bid to host future CAF events, enhancing regional prestige.

As African football continues to grow globally, tournaments like the CAF Confederation Cup provide vital exposure and competitive experience, shaping the continent’s footballing future.