The stage is set for a heavyweight continental showdown as USM Alger take on Zamalek SC in the final of the CAF Confederation Cup 2025–26 Final, with both sides chasing glory and a record USD 4 million prize.
The first leg will be hosted at the iconic Stade 5 Juillet 1962 on Saturday, 9 May, before the decisive return clash a week later at the Cairo International Stadium.
USM Alger come into this final with strong pedigree, having lifted the trophy in 2023 after edging Young Africans S.C. on away goals in a dramatic 2-2 aggregate draw. Meanwhile, Zamalek boast an equally impressive record, champions in 2019 and 2024, both times overcoming RS Berkane in tightly contested finals.
Recent history suggests fans should brace for another nail-biting affair. Confederation Cup finals have consistently been decided by the finest of margins, whether away goals or penalty shootouts, and this clash looks no different.
Zamalek booked their spot by narrowly defeating CR Belouizdad 1-0 on aggregate, with Brazilian forward Juan Alvina proving decisive. On the other hand, USM Alger advanced past Olympic Club Safi on away goals after a 1-1 aggregate draw, underlining their resilience on the road.
Officiating duties will be handled by Dahane Beida in the first leg, while Pierre Atcho takes charge of the return leg.
Beyond silverware, the stakes are higher than ever. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has boosted the winner’s prize to a record USD 4 million, signaling continued investment in African club football and raising the competition’s prestige.
With two experienced finalists, contrasting styles, and a history of razor-thin margins, this final has all the ingredients of a classic African football showdown.
