CAF Confederation Cup final: USM Alger assistant coach Hadj Adlane wary of tough Zamalek test

USM Alger assistant coach Hadj Adlane has admitted his side faces a difficult challenge against Zamalek SC in the second leg of the CAF Confederation Cup final, despite carrying a first-leg advantage into Cairo.

The Algerian side secured a narrow 1-0 victory in the opening leg at home and now stands just one match away from continental glory. However, Adlane insists the tie is far from over and believes complete focus will be required to overcome the Egyptian giants on their own turf.

Speaking to Algerian newspaper Al-Nahar, the USM Alger assistant coach stressed that the team arrived in Egypt determined to protect the advantage earned in Algeria.

“We came to Egypt to defend the lead we achieved in the first leg after winning 1-0,” Adlane stated.

The assistant coach acknowledged the scale of the challenge awaiting his players at Cairo International Stadium, where a packed crowd is expected to back Zamalek in their pursuit of another continental title.

“We know the match will be difficult, but we will do everything possible to bring the trophy back home,” he added.

Adlane also revealed that the technical staff has instructed the players to put the first-leg result behind them and focus entirely on the decisive encounter in Cairo.

“We have forgotten the result of the first leg, and our full concentration is now on the next match. The players understand the responsibility that awaits them,” he concluded.

The return leg of the Confederation Cup final will take place on Saturday night at 9 pm local time in Cairo.

Zamalek must win by at least two goals to clinch what would be their third CAF Confederation Cup crown. A 1-0 victory for the Egyptian side would send the final to a penalty shootout.

Meanwhile, USM Alger can secure the title with a win, a draw, or even a one-goal defeat if they manage to score in Cairo, as the away-goals rule could prove decisive in the battle for the trophy.