The final of the CAF Confederation Cup kicks off this Saturday as USM Alger host Zamalek SC in the first leg of the 2025/26 showdown in Algiers, with a record prize of USD 4 million awaiting the eventual champions.
The opening encounter will take place at the Stade 5 Juillet 1962 on 9 May, before the decisive return leg is staged a week later at the Cairo International Stadium on 16 May.
Both sides enter the final with remarkably similar records in this season’s competition. USM Alger and Zamalek have each played 10 matches on their route to the final, recording five wins, four draws and just one defeat apiece.
USM Alger hold a slight edge offensively with 12 goals scored compared to Zamalek’s 10, while the Egyptian side boast a marginally stronger defensive record after conceding six goals against USMA’s seven.
The Algerian club have also kept six clean sheets during the campaign, two more than Zamalek’s four.
Both sides enter the showdown with strong continental pedigree. USM Alger lifted the trophy in 2023 after overcoming Young Africans SC on the away-goals rule, while Zamalek are chasing a third Confederation Cup crown after triumphs in 2019 and 2024 against RS Berkane.
Zamalek secured their place in this year’s final following a disciplined semi-final performance against CR Belouizdad, progressing 1-0 on aggregate after keeping a clean sheet in Cairo.
USM Alger, meanwhile, advanced in dramatic fashion after edging Olympic Club Safi on away goals following a 1-1 aggregate draw.
The two-legged final is expected to deliver another fierce North African battle between two experienced clubs aiming to add another continental title to their history.
CAF has also confirmed the officiating teams for both matches. Mauritanian referee Dahane Beida will take charge of the first leg in Algeria, while Gabonese official Pierre Atcho has been appointed for the return fixture in Cairo.
With continental glory and a record financial reward on the line, both clubs will be targeting a strong first-leg result before the decisive clash in Egypt next week.
