USM Alger are guaranteed a place in the 2025/2026 CAF Confederation Cup, regardless of the outcome of the Algerian Cup final or their final position in the domestic league.
The Algerian Football Federation (FAF) has clarified the qualification criteria for the upcoming African interclub competitions.
As outlined in an official statement, the top three finishers in the national championship will automatically qualify for continental tournaments—two for the CAF Champions League and one for the Confederation Cup.
In addition, the Algerian Cup winner secures a Confederation Cup berth.
However, if the Cup winner has already qualified for a continental competition via league standing, the finalist may be granted entry instead.
This ruling directly benefits USM Alger, who are currently sixth in the league and preparing to face CR Belouizdad in the Algerian Cup final.
Chabab, already assured of a top-three league finish, have effectively opened the door for USMA’s automatic qualification to the Confederation Cup—irrespective of who lifts the trophy.
The scenario presents a significant boost for USM Alger, who now have confirmation of a return to African competition without the need to secure a podium finish in Ligue 1 or win the domestic cup final.
Their continental participation for next season is now locked in, allowing the club to begin preparations for another campaign on the African stage.
“This outcome safeguards USMA’s continuity at the continental level and reaffirms our ambition to compete among the best on the African scene,” a club official said following the announcement.
The news is likely to be welcomed by supporters of the Soustara outfit, who saw their team fall short of a top-three finish but will still see them represent Algeria in the CAF Confederation Cup for yet another season.
It also highlights the strategic advantage of reaching a domestic cup final in a system where league performance often dictates African qualification.
As anticipation builds for the final clash against CR Belouizdad, USM Alger can now take to the pitch with less pressure, knowing that their place on the continental stage is secure—regardless of the result.
