CAF Super Cup
The CAF Super Cup kicks off the African club football season annually, pitting the CAF Champions League winners against the Confederation Cup holders from the prior year. It crowns Africa's first champion of the new campaign, captivating fans across the continent from the Maghreb to the south.
History and foundation
Launched in 1993 as the African Super Cup for Champions, it evolved into its current form in 2018. Racing Bafoussam beat Esperance Tunis in the inaugural clash. Notably, the 2020 edition fell victim to COVID-19, while in 2022, Senegal's Teungueth FC stunned Al Ahly 1-0. Over 22 editions, Egyptian and Tunisian sides have dominated.
Tournament format
A single-leg showdown on neutral ground, often in Morocco or Egypt. If clubs hail from the same nation, it's Champions League finalists vs. Confederation Cup winners. Standard 90 minutes, with extra time and penalties if needed. CAF rotates venues since 2023 for equity.
Interesting facts
Matches average 2.3 goals, favoring tight defenses. Al Ahly leads with 5 wins; Hossam Hassan tops scorers with 3. Stars like Mohamed Salah (early Al Mokawoun days) and Percy Tau (Teungueth) have shone, alongside Walid El Kadi (Raja). It spotlights Africa's rising talents.