The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has confirmed the dates for the upcoming Confederation Cup final between USM Alger and Zamalek SC, providing clarity for supporters amid uncertainty surrounding scheduling and disciplinary proceedings.
According to a source within CAF, the two-legged final will proceed as planned next month, with the first leg set to take place in Algiers and the return fixture scheduled for Cairo. The announcement comes after speculation that potential changes to the CAF Champions League final calendar could have a knock-on effect on other continental competitions.
Dates confirmed despite scheduling concerns
The first leg of the Confederation Cup final will be staged at the July 5 Stadium on 9 May, while the second leg will be played at the Cairo International Stadium on 16 May.
Earlier reports had suggested that CAF was considering altering the date of the CAF Champions League final first leg between Mamelodi Sundowns and FAR Rabat. However, the source indicated that any such adjustment would not affect the scheduling of the Confederation Cup final.
This confirmation has been welcomed by supporters of USM Alger, who had been awaiting clarity over whether logistical changes elsewhere in the continental calendar might disrupt their team’s preparations.
Full stadiums expected for both legs
CAF has also indicated that both matches will be played in front of spectators, easing concerns about possible restrictions on fan attendance.
The issue had drawn attention due to an ongoing investigation by CAF’s Disciplinary Committee into incidents during USM Alger’s recent match against Olympique Safi. That fixture was reportedly affected by organisational and security shortcomings, which contributed to crowd disturbances.
Despite this, the source confirmed that the Confederation Cup final will proceed with full crowds. The decision reflects the significance of the event not only from a sporting perspective but also in terms of its commercial and promotional value, making matches without supporters an unattractive option.
Disciplinary decisions expected soon
CAF’s Disciplinary Committee has already begun reviewing the case involving USM Alger and Olympique Safi. The process includes examining reports submitted by match officials, observers, and security coordinators, which detail the circumstances surrounding the incidents.
According to information from within the organisation, any sanctions against USM Alger are expected to involve financial penalties and disciplinary measures that may be suspended for a period of one year. Olympique Safi, who were eliminated at the semi-final stage, could also face financial and sporting sanctions.
The investigation has focused on issues linked to stadium management and security arrangements, with reports highlighting failures that contributed to episodes of crowd unrest.
A decision from the Disciplinary Committee is anticipated imminently, with the source suggesting that outcomes could be announced as early as Thursday or by Sunday at the latest.
Anticipation builds ahead of high-stakes final
With dates now confirmed and fan attendance secured, attention is turning firmly to the pitch as USM Alger and Zamalek prepare for a decisive continental showdown.
While disciplinary matters remain unresolved, CAF’s commitment to maintaining the final schedule has provided a degree of stability. Supporters, particularly in Algiers, are now expected to turn out in large numbers as anticipation builds for one of African club football’s most significant fixtures.
