USM Alger Defeats Zamalek on Penalties to Retain Confederation Cup Title

Cairo - USM Alger claimed their second African Confederation Cup title in dramatic fashion, defeating Egypt's Zamalek 8-7 on penalties after a 1-0 defeat in regulation time in Saturday's second leg.

Having won the first leg 1-0 in Algiers, the aggregate score was level at 1-1, forcing the match into a shootout. Both teams converted their first seven penalties before Zamalek's Mohamed Shehata missed. Glody Likonza then stepped up to seal the victory for the Algerian side, sparking celebrations at Cairo International Stadium.

Zamalek struck early with a fifth-minute penalty from Oday Dabbagh, but the Egyptian giants could not extend their advantage despite dominating possession. USM Alger came closest after the break when Ahmed Khaldi, the first-leg hero, shot narrowly wide.

The win marks USM Alger's second Confederation Cup title, following their success in 2023.