USM Alger Calm Ahead of Crucial CAF Champions League Return Leg in Dakar
USM Alger is set to face AS Pikine in the second leg of their CAF Champions League Round of 32 clash on Sunday, with a commanding 5-1 advantage from the first leg. Despite their strong position, coach Otto Pfister remains cautious, stressing that nothing is guaranteed as the team travels to Dakar.
The Algerians will make the trip with a squad of just 14 players, missing key figures such as Ferhat, Seguer, Manucho, Nadji, and Boudebouda. The participation of Meftah remains uncertain, further thinning the squad. However, the team can count on the return of two international players, Belaili and Chafai, who joined from the national team’s training camp in Doha on Tuesday.
Pfister, with his extensive experience in African football, is aware of the challenges his side will face in the return leg. He remains wary of underestimating the opposition, recalling his team’s near-collapse in the previous round after a 3-0 win over Chad’s Foulah Edifice. Despite the favorable scoreline, the return leg saw USM Alger almost falter, losing 3-1.
The German coach knows that playing in difficult non-sporting conditions in Senegal could make for a challenging match. His focus is on ensuring that his squad stays disciplined and focused, knowing that their qualification is far from assured.
