CAF Champions League: Title Holders ES Sétif Face USM Alger in All-Algerian Opener
Reigning CAF Champions League winners ES Sétif return to continental competition this Saturday, hosting USM Alger in a high-stakes all-Algerian clash to open the group stage.
After a brief off-season break, the “Black Eagles” are back in action, eager to defend the title they famously lifted last season. But they face a challenging start against a well-organised USM Alger side in what promises to be one of the standout fixtures of the group stage.
“It’s a derby between two Algerian clubs with an African flavour. That’s what makes it even more difficult,” ES Sétif defender Arouss told Le Buteur. “Both teams know each other very well. But we must approach the match with the mindset of champions and aim for a strong start. A win would be hugely important, both psychologically and for the rest of our campaign.”
Sétif, who also clinched the Algerian domestic title, enter the match with confidence but not without concerns. The club recently saw the departure of five key players: Ze Ondo, Lagraa, Melouli, Boukria, and Demou. The absence of experienced names such as defensive midfielder Lagraa and the central defensive duo of Demou and Melouli could leave a noticeable gap.
Still, the reigning champions remain composed ahead of this continental test. While the team may lack full match sharpness—this being the first competitive game of their season—they are determined to assert their status as defending champions.
“You know very well that there are no easy matches, especially in the CAF Champions League, and especially at this stage,” added Arouss. “What complicates things is that we’re not at 100%, and this is our first game of the season. But the fact that we’re champions gives us the strength and motivation to defend our title.”
The encounter carries extra weight due to its derby nature, with local bragging rights at stake in addition to crucial group points. Both clubs know each other intimately, which adds tactical complexity to the contest.
For USM Alger, the absence of key players such as suspended goalkeeper Mohamed Lamine Zemmamouche and injured midfielder Nassim Bouchema presents its own set of challenges. However, the visitors are also in solid form and will look to capitalise on Sétif’s transitional phase following the squad changes.
As the CAF Champions League group stage gets underway, all eyes will be on the Stade 8 Mai 1945 in Sétif for what promises to be a tightly contested North African derby between two of Algeria’s biggest clubs. For ES Sétif, a strong start is not just about points—it’s about reaffirming their status as kings of the continent.
