USM Alger sporting director eyes win over Zamalek in CAF Confederation Cup final return clash

USM Alger sporting director Saïd Alik has expressed strong confidence ahead of the decisive second leg of the CAF Confederation Cup final against Zamalek SC, insisting his side are determined to score in Cairo and return home with the continental trophy.

USM Alger head into the return fixture with a slender advantage after securing a 1-0 victory in the first leg in Algeria, placing the Algerian side within touching distance of a historic continental success.

Speaking to Algerian outlet Ennahar, Alik described the upcoming clash in Egypt as the “second half” of the final and stressed that his players are fully prepared for the challenge awaiting them in Cairo.

“We played the first half in Algeria and we won it. Now we will play the second half in Egypt, and we must win it as well,” Alik declared confidently.

The USM Alger official emphasized that his team’s ambition is not merely to defend their lead, but to attack and score at least once at Cairo International Stadium — a goal that could significantly complicate matters for the Egyptian giants.

“In the final, it is essential to be at the top level, and our objective is to score in Egypt in order to bring the cup back home,” he added.

Alik also praised the mentality and experience of his squad, highlighting their familiarity with high-pressure occasions and major continental encounters.

“Our players are used to these kinds of big matches. I sensed great determination and desire within the group,” he concluded.

The return leg is scheduled for Saturday night in Cairo, where Zamalek will attempt to overturn the first-leg deficit in front of their supporters.

The equation remains clear for both sides heading into the decisive showdown. Zamalek must win by at least a two-goal margin to secure what would be their third CAF Confederation Cup title. A 1-0 victory for the Egyptian side would force the final into a penalty shootout.

Meanwhile, USM Alger can lift the trophy with a win, a draw, or even a narrow one-goal defeat provided they score in Cairo. The Algerian club is chasing what would be the second Confederation Cup title in its history, while Zamalek hope their experience on the continental stage can inspire another famous comeback.