USM Alger coach Lamine Ndiaye says his side are in for a “very difficult” challenge when they face Egypt’s Zamalek in the Confederation of African Football (CAF) Confederation Cup final, even after praising his players for digging deep to reach the showpiece.
USM progressed to the final on away goals after a tense 1-1 draw against Olympique Safi in Morocco, with Ahmed Khaldi’s penalty proving crucial in a tightly contested semi-final.
Ndiaye described the encounter as a “real battle” that was repeatedly interrupted, but said his team showed the kind of discipline and character needed at this stage of the competition.
Looking ahead, he was clear that the final will be a step up. He pointed to Zamalek’s experience and strong defensive structure as key threats, warning that his side will have to be at their best to compete with the Egyptian giants in the CAF Confederation Cup final.
–ChannelAfrica–
