The matches of the CAF Confederation Cup generally favored the Algerian representatives during the first leg of the quarterfinals. CR Belouizdad and USM Alger returned from their African away trips with results that allow them to hope for qualification to the semifinals.
Chabab achieved a good result in Egypt by securing a valuable draw (1–1) against Al Masry SC at the Suez Stadium. After falling behind, the Belouizdad players managed to equalize in the final minutes thanks to a superb volley from Lotfi Boussouar. This important result allows Belouizdad to approach the return leg with a psychological advantage.
For its part, USM Alger lost on Sunday afternoon in Lubumbashi against AS Maniema Union (2–1), but still retains all its chances of qualification. The match took place under difficult conditions and the Red and Black were trailing at halftime (1–0) after a penalty converted by Clément Pitroipa.
The Algiers side reacted immediately after the break by earning a penalty of their own, converted by Khaldi (USM Alger) in the 53rd minute to level the score. However, in the 65th minute, Moanda of Maniema Union restored the lead for the Congolese side by taking advantage of a moment of hesitation in the USMA defense to beat Oussama Benbot. Despite several attempts at the end of the match, USMA failed to equalize.
Nevertheless, these results place both Algerian representatives in a favorable position ahead of the return matches that will be played in Algiers, where they will try to secure their place in the semifinals.
The return match between CR Belouizdad and Al Masry SC will take place on March 21 at the Nelson Mandela Stadium, while the match between USM Alger and AS Maniema Union is scheduled for March 22 at the 5 July 1962 Stadium.
Linetech
