The Confederation of African Football has confirmed the match officials for the two-legged Confederation Cup final between Zamalek SC and USM Alger, with fixtures scheduled for 9 and 16 May.
According to information obtained from sources within CAF’s refereeing committee, the first leg will be played at the 5 July Stadium in the Algerian capital on Saturday, 9 May, with kick-off set for 22:00 Mecca time.
Mauritanian referee Dahane Beida has been appointed to take charge of the opening match. He will be supported by Angolan assistant referee Gilson dos Santos and Cameroonian Elvis Noujoya, while Mauritanian official Abdel Aziz Bouh will serve as fourth official.
VAR teams and international experience
CAF has also designated a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) team for the first leg, led by Ghanaian official Daniel Laryea. He will be assisted by Mauritanian Boubacar Sarr and Kenyan referee Mimasa Diskins.
The selection of experienced international referees, including those with World Cup credentials, underscores the significance of the final, which brings together two of Africa’s leading clubs.
Return leg to be held in Cairo
The second leg has been scheduled for Saturday, 16 May at the Cairo International Stadium, with kick-off at 21:00 Mecca time.
For the decisive match, CAF has appointed a full Gabonese officiating team led by referee Pierre Atcho. He will be assisted by Boris Marlisa and Amos Ndong, while Patrick Bamiah will act as fourth official.
VAR responsibilities for the return leg will be overseen by Tunisian referee Haitham Guirat, supported by assistant VAR official Maria Rivet and Cameroonian referee Karen Fomo.
Organisational focus after past issues
Preparations for the final are expected to include a series of coordination meetings involving CAF, local organisers and Zamalek, who will host the second leg. The aim is to avoid organisational challenges that occurred during a previous final staged in Cairo.
That earlier event, when Zamalek hosted Morocco’s RS Berkane, was marred by difficulties during the trophy presentation ceremony. The issues led CAF’s disciplinary committee to impose sanctions on the Egyptian club, including a requirement to play four matches without supporters and a fine exceeding $200,000.
High-stakes final for both clubs
The upcoming final represents a significant moment for both Zamalek and USM Alger, with continental silverware at stake. The appointment of experienced referees and VAR officials reflects CAF’s intention to ensure a smooth and professionally managed conclusion to the tournament.
With matches set to take place in Algiers and Cairo, attention will now turn to preparations on and off the pitch as both clubs aim to secure one of Africa’s major titles.
