CAFCC: USM Alger hold off strong FC San Pedro challenge

USM Alger won their opening match in Group A on Sunday in the CAF Confederation Cup (CAFCC) with a 3-2 result over Ivorian club FC San Pedro.

The Algerian giants encountered firm resistance from the visitors at the Stade du 5 Juillet in Algiers but USMA did enough to hold off a second half charge. Dramane Kamagate’s 65th minute finish pulled a goal back for the Ivorian club but they could not pull level after falling behind by two goals.

Houssem Ghacha opened the scoring for the hosts in the 17th minute. The former ES Setif star reacted quickly to volley in after goalkeeper Lebato Kipre came out to claim a corner kick but could not get back into position.

In the second half, it appeared that the hosts would walk to an easy victory when Adem Alilet powered home a header from another set piece just after the hour mark. However, the visitors showed promising signs after the interval and were rewarded for their efforts a few minutes later when Kamagate produced a calm finish from Abi Kassi’s cross.

But in the end, favorites USMA were able to finish the job when right back Saadi Radouani added a late goal to allow the home supporters to relax. The visitors did complete a strong effort with a goal in the final seconds by Mouhamadou Karamoko but the full time whistle blew immediately after.

On Friday, USMA will next face fellow Group A winners Olympique de Safi of Morocco, who defeated Malian club Djoliba earlier on Sunday. FC San Pedro will clash with fellow West African side Djoliba at home next sunday.