Goals once again took centre stage at the conclusion of Matchday 5 in the CAF Confederation Cup, with several forwards delivering decisive performances as clubs either secured quarter-final qualification or kept their hopes alive ahead of the final group fixtures.

At the top of the scoring chart, four players are level on three goals each, highlighting just how competitive this year’s tournament has been, with teams across the continent still firmly in the mix.

Soufiane El Moudane played a starring role for Olympique de Safi, netting twice over the weekend, including the match-winner in a 2-1 victory over Djoliba.

The result confirmed the Moroccan side’s place in the knockout rounds, lifting them to second in Group A on 12 points, just one behind leaders USM Alger.

USM Alger have also benefited from clinical finishing, with Djamal Kamagaté matching El Moudane’s three-goal tally.

Kamagaté was influential in his side’s thrilling 3-2 away win against San Pedro, a result that secured top spot in Group A and sealed qualification to the quarter-finals with a game to spare.

In Group C, Abdennour Belhocini and Prince Nzaou have been key figures for CR Belouizdad and Otôho d’Oyo respectively.

Both strikers were on target again on Matchday 5 as their teams registered narrow victories away and at home to confirm progression to the knockout stage.

Just behind the leading quartet, several players remain within striking distance on two goals. They include Issouf Dosso (San Pedro), Zineddine Draoui (USM Alger), Abderrahim Deghmoum (Al Masry), Salaheddine Errahouli (Olympique de Safi), Mohamed Hashem (Al Masry), Seifeddine Jaziri (Zamalek) and Kader Koné (Otôho d’Oyo).

With USM Alger, Olympique de Safi, CR Belouizdad and Otôho d’Oyo already through to the quarter-finals, attention now shifts to Matchday 6, where the race for the Golden Boot could either produce a clear frontrunner or remain finely poised until the final whistle.