Algerian Radio
The two Algerian representatives in the CAF Confederation Cup, CR Belouizdad and USM Alger, are set to play for their futures away from home, aiming to secure a place in the final during the semi-final return legs scheduled for this coming Friday and Sunday.
CR Belouizdad faces a perilous mission against Zamalek SC in a particularly challenging atmosphere at the Cairo International Stadium. Having lost the first leg 1-0 at the Nelson Mandela Stadium in Baraki, "Le Chabab" finds itself with its back against the wall and must deliver a top-tier performance to turn the tide.
Conversely, Zamalek, the current leaders of the Egyptian league, enter the match as clear favorites on their home turf, bolstered by an expected crowd of nearly 45,000 supporters. However, the "Laâquiba" squad will benefit from a nearly full roster, with the exception of defender Keddad, who is sidelined following surgery. This remains a significant asset as they attempt to stage an upset in one of Africa’s most intense stadiums.
To prepare for this decisive encounter, CRB traveled to the Egyptian capital early on Monday evening. Captain Benguit and his teammates remain determined to reverse the result and reach the first continental final in the club's history.
The match will be officiated by Sudanese referee Mahmoud Ali Mahmoud Ismaïl, assisted by Khalil Hassani of Tunisia and Arsenio Chadreque Maringule of Mozambique. The fourth official is Pacifique Ndabihawenimana of Burundi, while the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) will be led by Sudan’s Yasser Ahmed Abdelaziz.
In the other semi-final, USM Alger, the 2023 title winners, will travel to Morocco to face Olympique Safi following a goalless draw (0-0) in the first leg at the July 5th Olympic Stadium. Despite the home draw, the "Rouge et Noir" head into the return leg with a degree of confidence, having previously secured a 1-0 victory away at Safi during the group stage.
Nonetheless, the Algiers-based side, managed by Senegalese coach Lamine N'diaye, will have to manage without suspended midfielder Islam Merili.
This match will be refereed by Samuel Uwikunda of Rwanda, assisted by Gilbert Cheruiyot of Kenya and Oliver Sanchez of Angola. The fourth official will be Mohamed Ali Hagg of Chad, with Senegal’s Issa Sy overseeing the VAR.
