Lupopo v USMA: a must-win for the Congolese

FC Saint Eloi Lupopo are the only Congolese club still in control of their own destiny in the race for a place in the quarter-finals of the Confederation Cup. But to do so, the Cheminots, third in Group A with 4 points, must win both of their remaining group-stage matches against the two leaders: USM Alger, second with 6 points, and Marumo Gallants, top with 9 points. Two finals, then, for Lubumbashi's 'Viets'. The first is this Sunday, 19 March at 12:00 GMT against USM Alger at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola.

Railwaymen with their backs to the wall

In this match, anything other than a win would be dangerous, even fatal, for Lupopo. A defeat would knock them out of the competition outright and send the Algerians through. A draw would badly damage their chances of qualifying. To stay in control of their own destiny, the Cheminots have to win. That would lift them into second place in the group, one point ahead of USMA, before they go for qualification in South Africa at Marumo Gallants on the final matchday.

Their coach, Mohamed Magassouba, believes that scenario is very much possible. "We firmly believe the players are well prepared and they are aware of the situation Congolese football is going through right now. They are ready to rise to the challenge. We have to count on everyone because there is hope. The door is open to qualification and we need to be united to go and get the win, which is a collective one," he said at the pre-match press conference.

A chance for revenge

Home matches are hugely important in these competitions. You have to maximise your points at home. FC Saint Eloi Lupopo will be keen to get their revenge on USM Alger, who thrashed them on the first matchday (3-0). One of the obstacles for the Congolese club, however, is their lack of experience at the highest level. "In our squad, many players are experiencing the African club competition for the very first time. On top of that, we are not match-sharp because of the break in the league. But football often springs surprises, and Lupopo are a bit better physically than they were in that match. There is hope, we will do everything to get this win", said Mohamed Magassouba at the press conference.

USMA poor travellers

The Algerian club USMA need at least a draw in this match to hold on to second place going into the final matchday. But the Algerians have been unconvincing away from home. In Ndola, they will be looking for their first point on the road, having lost in Libya to Al Akhdar (1-0) and in South Africa to Marumo Gallants (2-0). Those numbers give FC Saint Eloi Lupopo even more hope, with their supporters behind them as they go for the win this Sunday.

Masiala Jonathan