USM Alger coach Ndiaye: “A battle won, the credit goes to the players”

In a tense and hard-fought atmosphere, USM Alger secured their place in the final of the CAF Confederation Cup after a hard-fought 1-1 draw away from home, following a goalless draw in the first leg to advance on the away goals tiebreaker. 

🎞️ Match Highlights:
A 1-1 draw for USM Alger vs Olympic Club Safi sends them to the #TotalEnergiesCAFCC final. pic.twitter.com/bOnXTrvwQE

— TotalEnergies CAFCL & CAFCC 🏆 (@CAFCLCC) April 19, 2026

Ndiaye praises USM Alger players for managing difficult conditions

A qualification built in pain, but fully savored by USMA’s Senegalese coach Lamine Ndiaye.

After the match, the former TP Mazembe coach did not hide his satisfaction, highlighting the commitment and discipline of his players: “The credit goes to the players. It was a real battle, and we managed to get this qualification. It is deserved,” he declared, his tone calm but filled with relief.

In a match marred by numerous interruptions, Ndiaye nevertheless lamented a lack of fluidity which, according to him, weighed on the players’ concentration: “It’s a shame to see so many stoppages in play, it breaks the rhythm and disrupts the players.”

Despite conceding the equalizer, USMA never truly lost control of the match. Solid in its organization, the Algerian team demonstrated maturity in managing periods of pressure: “The opponent came back to level the score, but we remained balanced. Even with the events surrounding the match, we managed to stay calm,” he analyzed.

A serenity that reflects the mindset of a group determined to go all the way. When asked about the upcoming final, Ndiaye remained true to his approach, balancing caution and measured confidence: “Everything will be fine, God willing.”

EDITOR NOTE: This article is translated from the original article written in French by Omar Chraibi for Pan-Africa Football.