The 2025/26 TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup reaches its decisive moment on Saturday as Zamalek SC host USM Alger in the second leg of the final at the Cairo International Stadium.
Kick-off is scheduled for 21:00 local time (18:00 GMT), with the Egyptian side facing the challenge of overturning a 1-0 deficit from the first leg in Algiers.
The Algerian club hold a slender advantage after a dramatic encounter last weekend, where Ahmed Khaldi converted a stoppage-time penalty to separate the two sides. That late goal has left the tie delicately balanced heading into the return fixture in Cairo.
For Zamalek, the task is clear. Backed by home support, the five-time African champions must produce a comeback if they are to secure a third Confederation Cup title, having previously lifted the trophy in 2019 and 2024. The Egyptian giants will be relying on both experience and home advantage as they seek to turn the tie in their favour.
USM Alger, however, arrive with confidence after a disciplined display in the first leg. The 2023 champions are aiming to claim their second title in the competition and will look to protect their narrow lead against what is expected to be intense pressure in Cairo.
The stakes extend beyond silverware. This year’s final also offers a record prize of 4 million US dollars for the winners, the highest in the history of the competition, underlining the growing financial and sporting significance of the tournament.
Both teams have navigated a demanding campaign to reach this stage, overcoming strong opposition across the continent. Now, only one match remains to determine the champion.
African football’s attention will be firmly fixed on Cairo, where the final promises a tense and competitive conclusion to the season. With pride, history and a substantial financial reward on the line, Saturday’s encounter is expected to deliver a fitting finale to the 2025/26 Confederation Cup.
The match will be officiated by Pierre Atcho, adding another layer of scrutiny to what is already one of the most anticipated fixtures on the African football calendar.
