USM Alger beat OC Safi to set up CAF Confederation Cup final with Zamalek

USM Alger secured their place in the CAF Confederation Cup final after a hard-fought 1-1 draw away to Olympique Safi, advancing on the away goals rule after the tie ended level on aggregate.

The decisive moment came just before halftime when Ahmed Khaldi calmly converted from the penalty spot, giving the visitors a crucial edge in a tightly contested encounter.

The match, however, was overshadowed early on by chaotic scenes before kickoff. Supporter clashes led to a significant delay, with fans storming the pitch during warm-ups and confronting players. Members of the USM Alger squad briefly withdrew to the dressing room, citing security concerns, as tensions escalated with objects thrown and altercations involving local authorities. Order was eventually restored, allowing the game to proceed after more than an hour’s delay.

Once play got underway, Olympique Safi started brightly, building on their disciplined performance in the first leg in Algiers. Goalkeeper Oussama Benbot was called into action early, producing a fine save to deny Younes Najjari, while further chances went begging for the hosts as they struggled to capitalise on their momentum.

USM Alger made their opportunity count late in the first half when a header from Dramane Kamagaté struck the arm of defender Anas Mkhair. Following a VAR review, referee Samuel Uwikunda pointed to the spot, and Khaldi converted with precision beyond the reach of Youssef El Motie.

The hosts responded in the second half, with Moussa Koné rising to head home an equaliser in the 75th minute, setting up a tense finale. A lengthy stoppage time period followed, but USM Alger’s defence stood firm under pressure to preserve the result.

Despite enduring a difficult domestic season, USM Alger now have a chance to salvage their campaign with continental silverware. The Algerian side will face Zamalek SC in the final, with the first leg set to be played in Algiers on May 9 before the return fixture in Egypt a week later.