Belouizdad score early and late to sink Stellenbosch in Confederation Cup

The Algerian champions made a fast start and were ahead inside five minutes. Abdennour Belhocini found space inside the box and calmly fired past goalkeeper Oscarine Masuluke, with Lofti Boussouar providing the assist. The early goal settled the hosts, who managed the game well and went into the break holding a 1-0 advantage.

After the restart, Stellenbosch struggled to impose themselves in the final third, with Belouizdad continuing to control key moments. Hunt attempted to shift the momentum just after the hour mark, making a triple substitution by introducing Thato Khiba, Wayde Jooste and Ashley Cupido.

The changes helped Stellenbosch see more of the ball, but their finishing let them down. Despite improved possession and some promising build-up play, clear chances were limited and the final pass often lacked precision.

Belouizdad remained dangerous on the counter and were rewarded deep into stoppage time. Mohamed Ali Ben Hammouda was brought down in the penalty area, and Farid El Melali stepped up to convert from the spot in the 95th minute, sealing the 2-0 win.

With momentum now firmly on their side, Belouizdad sit in pole position in Group C, while Stellenbosch will look to use home advantage to reclaim top spot when the two teams meet again on 1 February.