USM Alger will host Wydad Casablanca this Saturday at the Mustapha-Tchaker Stadium in Blida for their opening match of the CAF Champions League group stage. The Algerian side is aiming to get off to a strong start, though the task ahead is far from easy.
USMA are struggling in the domestic league, currently sitting in mid-table, and are coming off a recent defeat. Head coach Bilal Dziri is fully aware of the challenge posed by Wydad Casablanca, who were runners-up in last season’s Champions League and are one of Africa’s most consistent and successful clubs.
Goalkeeper Zemmamouchen emphasized the respect the team has for their opponents while expressing confidence in USMA’s chances. “We know Wydad Casablanca, it’s a great club that needs no introduction. In Africa, they’re a team that achieves great things, so they deserve the utmost respect,” he said.
Despite acknowledging WAC’s strength, Zemmamouchen highlighted the importance of playing at home: “Now, we know it’s a difficult match, especially since it’s the first game and we need to start the group stage well. We have a slight advantage playing at home, but we’ll need to be strong to claim the three points in this match.”
He also stressed the need for focus and determination: “In my experience, WAC is a solid opponent, so we should expect a tough game. We’ll give our best to put on a good show and aim for the points to secure a good position in the standings before the upcoming matches.”
USM Alger will be hoping that home advantage and careful preparation can give them the edge against one of Africa’s top clubs, setting the tone for their Champions League campaign.
