Zamalek SC will look to overturn a narrow deficit when they welcome USM Alger in the second leg of the CAF Confederation Cup final at the Cairo International Stadium on Saturday, with kick-off set for 6:00 pm GMT.
The Egyptian giants trail 1–0 from the first leg in Algiers and must secure at least a two-goal victory to lift the trophy after a frustrating opening defeat.
Zamalek were left aggrieved in the first meeting, where Juan Bezerra’s late solo effort was ruled out by VAR before Ahmed Khaldi converted a stoppage-time penalty to hand USM Alger a dramatic advantage.
Despite inconsistent recent form, Zamalek remain formidable at home, where they have historically excelled in continental competitions. The club is chasing a third CAF Confederation Cup title, having previously lifted the trophy in 2019 and 2024, which would equal the competition record.
However, the hosts face notable selection challenges ahead of the decisive clash. Key players including Omar Gaber, Ahmed Hossam, Juan Bezerra (pelvic injury), and Mohamed El-Sayed (ankle sprain) are all doubts, while defender Mahmoud Bentayg is suspended following a red card in the first leg.
Head coach Moatamed Gamal insists his side still have everything to play for.
“There is a first half that has ended in Algeria, and there is still another half in Cairo. We have strong motivation to make up for this and win the title,” he said.
“We will fight until the last minute… Zamalek have big players and they are up to the responsibility.”
USM Alger, meanwhile, arrive in Cairo holding a slim 1–0 aggregate advantage and in strong form, unbeaten in their last six matches across all competitions.
The Algerian side are targeting a third continental trophy after their 2023 CAF Confederation Cup and Super Cup triumphs, and will be confident despite playing away from home.
Head coach Lamine N’Diaye remains focused on securing the result.
“The most important thing when playing finals is to win,” he said. “We are one match away from winning the title, and we will fight to return from Egypt with the cup.”
USM Alger travel with a near full-strength squad, with no suspensions despite several players being on yellow cards in the first leg.
Gabonese referee Pierre Atcho will officiate the encounter, which is expected to draw a capacity crowd of around 46,000 at Cairo International Stadium.
This will be the fourth meeting between the two clubs, with USM Alger remaining unbeaten in previous encounters, recording two wins and one draw.
