Lamine N’Diaye celebrates Ahmed Khaldi’s late winner as USM edge Zamalek

Lamine N’Diaye struck a tone of cautious optimism after guiding USM Alger to a slender but significant 1-0 victory over Zamalek SC in the first leg of the 2025/26 CAF Confederation Cup final.

Played under tense conditions at the 5 July Olympic Stadium on Saturday night, the encounter appeared destined for a stalemate until a dramatic late intervention shifted the balance. Ahmed Khaldi kept his composure deep into stoppage time to convert from the penalty spot, handing the hosts a crucial edge ahead of the decisive return leg in Egypt.

For N’Diaye, the outcome carried more weight than the performance itself, as USM Alger took a vital step toward continental glory.

“The most important thing when playing finals is to win, whatever the performance. We must work to correct some technical aspects,” he said, acknowledging both the significance of the result and the need for improvement.

The victory, however narrow, represents a psychological boost against one of Africa’s most decorated sides. Zamalek’s pedigree on the continental stage ensured a fiercely contested battle, with both teams demonstrating tactical discipline and defensive resilience throughout much of the match.

Yet it was USM Alger who found the decisive breakthrough when it mattered most, capitalising on late pressure to tilt the tie in their favour.

Despite the advantage, N’Diaye was quick to temper expectations, stressing that the contest remains finely poised.

“We achieved an important victory against a big team with continental experience, but the title has not been decided yet,” he noted, reinforcing the importance of focus ahead of the second leg.

With the return fixture looming in Egypt, USM Alger face a different kind of challenge, one that will test their composure and tactical maturity in a hostile environment.

Protecting a narrow lead against an experienced Zamalek side will demand discipline and efficiency, particularly in key moments where the tie could swing.

Still, belief is growing within the Algerian camp.

“We are one match away from winning the title, and we will fight to return from Egypt with the cup,” N’Diaye added, while also paying tribute to both his players and the supporters whose backing proved instrumental on the night.”