Asec Mimosas secured their place in the quarter-finals of the CAF Confederation Cup on Sunday, January 19, 2025, at the Félix Houphouët-Boigny Stadium in Abidjan-Plateau, thanks to an impressive 4-0 victory over Orapa United. Célestin Ecua was the standout player, scoring a brace (36th and 64th minutes). The other goals were scored by Armand Dagrou (79th minute) and Salifou Diarrassouba (90+2), sealing a decisive win. This performance was particularly significant as Asec, who had been relatively quiet offensively with just three goals in five matches, finally unleashed their attacking potential at the end of the group stage.
However, this success alone wouldn’t have been enough. The fate of the Yellow and Blacks was also determined in Algiers, Algeria, where Usm Alger defeated Jaraaf de Dakar (2-0), the direct rivals of Asec for the second qualifying spot. A goal by Ismail Belkacemi (81st minute) followed by a counterattack from Saadi Radouani (90+9) dashed the Senegalese club's hopes and handed Asec the vital ticket to the quarter-finals. With 8 points and a +2 goal difference, Asec finished second in Group C, behind Usm Alger, the undisputed leader with 14 points. This fortunate outcome highlights Asec’s resilience but also serves as a warning for the challenges ahead.
The quarter-finals are set to raise the intensity. Asec could face formidable clubs such as Simba SC, Zamalek, or RS Berkane. These opponents, with their recognized experience and technical quality on the continental stage, will present a real test for the Ivorians. To continue their journey and possibly win the title, Asec must elevate their game. While their offensive performance against Orapa United was encouraging, it should be put into perspective given the defensive weaknesses of their opponent. Against better-structured and more experienced teams, any lapses could be costly. There is clear room for improvement, especially in maintaining offensive consistency and defensive discipline.
If the Mimosas can combine these aspects with their usual fighting spirit, they could write a new chapter in their African competition history. The quarter-finals will thus be a crucial turning point. For Asec, it will be about proving they have the resources to compete with the continent’s best teams and continue their pursuit of glory. The teams qualified for the quarter-finals of the Confederation Cup are: Asec Mimosas (Côte d'Ivoire), Usm Alger (Algeria), Simba SC (Tanzania), RS Berkane (Morocco), Zamalek SC (Egypt), CS Constantine (Algeria), Stellenbosch FC (South Africa), and Al Masry SC (Egypt).
