Cairo – African Stadiums
In a breathtaking match that kept Algerian fans on the edge of their seats until the very last moment, USM Alger successfully wrote a new golden chapter in African football history. The Red and Black secured the CAF Confederation Cup title following a thrilling penalty shootout victory (8 – 7) against Egypt’s Zamalek SC at the Cairo International Stadium, after the regular time ended in a 1 – 0 victory for Zamalek, tying the aggregate score at 1 – 1.
A Dramatic Scenario and Back to Square One
The “Soustara” boys entered the match with a mental and technical advantage after winning the first leg 1-0 at the 5 Juillet Stadium in Algiers. However, the winds at the Cairo International Stadium did not blow in USMA’s favor during the opening minutes. The hosts surprised the Algiers defense with intense pressure, resulting in an early penalty converted successfully by Palestinian forward Oday Dabbagh in the 5th minute (5′).
This early goal brought the dream final back to square one on aggregate (1 – 1), igniting a fierce tactical and physical battle on the pitch. Despite the pressure, heroic defensive resilience from the likes of Radouani and Draoui kept Zamalek at bay for the remainder of the match, leading the game straight into a penalty shootout.
Penalties Smile upon the Red and Black
In a marathon penalty shootout that tested nerves rather than skill, USM Alger players maintained absolute calm, shifting the pressure onto their opponents. The decisive moment came during the eighth penalty kick, missed by Zamalek’s Mohamed Shehata, officially declaring USMA the winners with an (8 – 7) scoreline. Immediately, the Algerian stands in Cairo and the streets of Algiers erupted into joyous celebrations.
Official Match Facts:Goal Scorer (Zamalek): Oday Dabbagh in the 5th minute (Penalty).
Man of the Match: The brilliant goalkeeper, Oussama Benbot, deservedly won the award following his heroic performance throughout the match and his crucial saves during the penalty shootout that guided USMA to the podium
President Abdelmadjid Tebboune Congratulates the Champions
Immediately following the final whistle and USMA’s continental coronation, the President of the Republic, Mr. Abdelmadjid Tebboune, congratulated the team via his official account, stating:
“Congratulations to USM Alger for this great and heroic African coronation, winning the Confederation Cup from the heart of Cairo. You have honored the national colors and brought joy to the Algerian people through your determination and resilience. All the best in your upcoming challenges, and may Algerian sports continue to shine.”

