CAF Confederation Cup: USM Alger’s sole focus is qualification

USM Alger face a critical challenge this week as they host Plateau United of Nigeria in the second leg of their CAF Confederation Cup playoff tie. After a narrow 2-1 defeat in the first leg in Lagos, the Soustara-based club must secure a strong result at home in Algiers to advance to the group stage of the competition. Despite inconsistent performances in domestic league play, the Red and Blacks remain determined to overturn the deficit and prolong their African campaign.

The first-leg defeat, while disappointing, is not insurmountable. A single-goal margin means that USM Alger can still qualify with a victory at home. Faouzi Yaya’s goal in Nigeria could prove decisive, as it gives the Algerian side hope and a foothold in the tie. With the players fully aware of what is at stake, motivation is high, and the team is preparing to deliver a performance that will satisfy both sporting and fan expectations.

One of the key boosts for USM Alger ahead of the return leg is the return of Mohamed Benkhemassa to the midfield. The player, fully recovered from a knee injury, has reassumed his starting role and is eager to contribute to the team’s qualification push. Speaking to competition.dz, Benkhemassa emphasized the importance of the match and the role of the supporters. “Thank God, I have fully recovered from my injury and am fit to return to my place for today’s match. It’s a match we absolutely cannot afford to miss, given its great importance,” he said. “We are aware of the responsibility that awaits us and we are doubly motivated to beat the Nigerians of Plateau United, which would mean qualification for the group stage of the CAF Confederation Cup. We are counting on a massive turnout from our supporters because we will need their support to secure qualification.”

USM Alger’s strategy will need to combine attacking intent with defensive vigilance. Plateau United, aware of their advantage, are likely to adopt a disciplined and cautious approach, aiming to defend their one-goal lead and exploit counterattacking opportunities. For the Algerian side, every chance must be converted efficiently, and the team will need to maintain composure under pressure while leveraging the energy of their passionate home fans at the July 5 Stadium.

Victory is essential for USM Alger to continue their CAF Confederation Cup journey, and the club views this match as a pivotal moment in an otherwise challenging season. Beyond continental ambitions, a successful result would boost team morale and potentially provide momentum to improve domestic league performances.

As kickoff approaches, anticipation is high, and the players, management, and supporters alike are focused on delivering a performance capable of overturning the first-leg deficit and securing a place in the CAF Confederation Cup group stage. The stakes could not be higher for USM Alger, and the outcome of this match will define their continental campaign.