USM Alger have secured their place in the final of the CAF Confederation Cup after a tense 1-1 draw away to Olympique Safi, with head coach Lamine Ndiaye describing the encounter as a “battle” overshadowed by disruption and unsportsmanlike incidents.
The Algerian side progressed after holding their hosts on Sunday, 19 April, at the Olympic Safi Stadium, adding to a goalless draw in the first leg. The result was enough to send USM Alger through to the final, where they will face Egyptian club Zamalek.
However, the match itself was marked by chaotic scenes even before kick-off. Supporters entered the pitch, causing a delay of one hour and 20 minutes. The disruption contributed to an atmosphere of tension that persisted throughout the contest.
Ndiaye praises players amid difficult circumstances
Speaking after the match, Ndiaye credited his players for maintaining focus under challenging conditions and navigating what he characterised as a highly contested encounter.
“The credit goes to the players, as they fought a great battle despite all the circumstances. It is unfortunate that there were so many consecutive stoppages, but we maintained our focus, and that is what I asked of the players in the match.”
Despite conceding an equaliser during the game, USM Alger held their composure to secure progression. Ndiaye acknowledged the competitive nature of the match, while also pointing to incidents he considered unsporting.
“The opponent managed to equalize the result, but we played a good match. There were some unsportsmanlike conduct, but we overcame it, and that is the most important thing.”
Disruptions overshadow key semi-final
The events surrounding the match added an unusual backdrop to a decisive fixture in African club football. The pitch invasion prior to kick-off set the tone for an encounter punctuated by interruptions, raising concerns about match organisation and player safety.
Nonetheless, USM Alger were able to adapt, demonstrating resilience in a high-pressure environment to secure their place in the final.
Ndiaye expressed hope that similar incidents would not occur in the upcoming final, emphasising the importance of a more controlled setting.
“God willing, everything will be fine in the final.”
Final presents historic opportunity
The qualification marks USM Alger’s second appearance in a Confederation Cup final. Their previous success in the competition came during the 2022–2023 season, when they claimed the title against Young Africans of Tanzania.
The club has also secured the African Super Cup and reached the CAF Champions League final once, losing to TP Mazembe in the 2014–2015 campaign.
As they prepare to face Zamalek, USM Alger will aim to add another continental title to their record. Their route to the final, however, will be remembered not only for the result but also for the extraordinary circumstances in which it was achieved.
