USM Alger have been crowned champions of the CAF Confederation Cup after a dramatic 8–7 penalty shootout win against Zamalek SC at the Cairo International Stadium on Saturday.
The final ended 1–1 on aggregate, with USM Alger securing their second title in the competition and earning a reported USD 4 million in prize money.
Zamalek made a fast start to the match, taking the lead in the 5th minute through a penalty.
Adam Kayed was brought down inside the box following a challenge from Che Malone, and after a VAR review, the referee awarded the spot-kick.
Oday Al-Dabbagh calmly converted, sending Osama Benbot the wrong way and leveling the tie on aggregate.
Despite sustained pressure from both sides, neither team could find a winner in regular and extra time, forcing a marathon penalty shootout that stretched to 16 kicks.
Tension peaked when Mohamed Shehata blasted Zamalek’s eighth penalty over the crossbar, shifting momentum decisively.
The decisive moment arrived when Glody Likonza converted the winning penalty, sealing a historic victory for USM Alger.
USM Alger head coach, Lamine N’Diaye has enjoyed a remarkable debut season since taking charge in February 2026.
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N’diaye also guided the club to the Algerian Cup, defeating CR Belouizdad 2–1 in the final.
The victory adds to the Senegalese Tactician’s decorated career in African football.
He previously won one CAF Champions League title in 2010 and two CAF Super Cup trophies with TP Mazembe.
He also led TP Mazembe to the final of the 2010 FIFA Club World Cup, becoming the first African club to reach that stage.
