USM Alger vs Zamalek: Duel of invincibles in the final of the CAF Cup

USM Alger to close an impressive season on the continent
USM Alger has been one of the most consistent teams this season in the CAF Cup. The Algerians have lost only one match throughout the competition. It was in the quarter-final against Maniema Union (1-2) in Congo for Lamine N'Diaye’s first. Only setback, the Algerian club having been undefeated in the group phase (4 wins and 2 draws) to finish at the top of Group A.

"The players are naturally motivated" - Lamine N'Diaye
Since then, the Red and Black have shown themselves to be strong, if not flamboyant, with a victory (1-0) in the second leg before beating the Moroccans from Olympique Safi in the semi-finals. For the USM, it’s a chance to seek another Confederation Cup title after 2023. Hence the importance of negotiating this round well, going with an already motivated group. «When you play a final, it is no longer even necessary to motivate the players. They are naturally," Lamine Ndiaye told CAFonline before this final. 

Before continuing: 

"How many footballers finish their careers without reaching this level? I think there are very many. A continental final remains a unique moment. Some players may wonder if they will ever have another opportunity to play such a poster. This also facilitates our work with the group. On the contrary, we have to manage energy and enthusiasm above all, because the players have a huge desire to fight. But you have to keep a cool head. The match must not be played before time.”

The Senegalese coach who has already won continental titles, including the Champions League (2009/10) and the CAF Supercup twice (2010 and 2011) with TP Mazembe, knows that the Cup will not be won with only a good first leg. "The idea that this final would be decided at the first leg is not fair," says Ndiaye. There are two matches and I think both teams will have to be at their best, really at their best, in the two rounds to hope to lift the trophy. The Zamalek no longer needs to be presented. It is one of the giants of the continent, with immense experience in major African events.”

Zamalek is aiming for a third title
Winner in 2019 and 2024, Zamalek is back in the Confederation Cup final. The White Knights also had only one defeat in the competition, in the group phase on 8 February precisely against the Zambians of Zesco United (5th day). Since then, the Egyptian club has activated the champion mode by ousting AS Otoho and CR Belouizdad, respectively in the quarters and semi-finals.

"Zamalek has experienced and international players" - Moatamed Gamal
Speaking ahead of the final, Zamalek coach Moatamed Gamal highlighted his team’s experience and hopes it will make a difference against Algeria: "Zamalek has experienced and international players. The team also includes players who played in the final of the CAF TotalEnergies Confederation Cup against RS Berkane (in 2024) and won the title. The newcomers, meanwhile, also have the experience and motivation to win their first continental title with Zamalek,"

 he told the official CAF website.

Gamal also insisted on the need for fair play in this double confrontation, in a climate of persistent tensions in continental competitions: "USM Alger is a formidable opponent and the match will be difficult. We respect this team and follow them closely. The preparation of Zamalek was short due to their commitment to the championship. USM Alger is a respectable team, with equally respectable supporters. It will be a meeting between two sister teams, and I hope that fair play will prevail, as was the case in the two matches of Zamalek against CR Belouizdad in the semi-finals..." , he wished.