Photo courtesy of Zamalek SC
The White Knights, who lifted the trophy in both 2019 and 2024, are keen to assert their continental pedigree with a third crown.
Winning the title would also bolster their financial powers after CAF announced an increase in the competition’s prize money, with the winners set to collect a record $4 million.
Zamalek secured their place in the final with a disciplined 1-0 aggregate victory over fellow Algerian outfit CR Belouizdad in the semi-finals, courtesy of a decisive goal from Brazilian forward Juan Bezerra.
Moatamed Gamal’s men enter the game with high morale, having recently edged closer to reclaiming the Egyptian Premier League title while maintaining a solid defensive record in their African campaign.
"We have closed the domestic league page for now and are fully focused on this final," Zamalek coach Moatamed Gamal told the CAF official website.
"It is a two-legged affair, and we consider this the first half. Our aim is to secure a positive result that makes our mission easier in Cairo," he added.
Gamal also expressed respect for USM Alger, warning that the Algerian side would provide a difficult challenge.
“USM Alger are strong opponents and the match will be difficult,” he said. “We respect the opposing team and we are following them closely.”
However, the Cairo-based side face significant selection headaches, as influential winger Bezerra is doubtful for the game after suffering a pelvic injury, alongside fitness concerns for Mohamed El-Sayed and Mahmoud Bentayg, who sustained an ankle sprain and a cut wound, respectively.
Furthermore, midfielder Mohamed Shehata could be unavailable for the game after his father passed away on Thursday.
Despite these setbacks, the White Knights are expected to prioritise defensive organisation and look to exploit transitions, a approach that has served them well throughout their continental campaign.
On the other hand, the Algerian hosts, led by Senegalese coach Lamine N'Diaye who took over the club in February, are eager to secure their second Confederation Cup trophy in four years, having previously lifted the title in 2023.
USM Alger booked their place in the final following a dramatic encounter with Morocco's Olympic Safi, advancing on the away goals rule after a 1-1 aggregate draw.
They rely on a disciplined tactical setup and the attacking threat of players like Abderrahmane Khaldi.
"Zamalek are a big team with a rich history in Africa, but we have our own ambitions," USM Alger’s N'Diaye said ahead of the clash. "We want to take a lead to Cairo to keep our title hopes alive."
N'Diaye described the USM Alger supporters as a crucial factor, calling them the team’s “12th player” and expressing confidence in their impact on such a major occasion.
Both sides met twice in the 2017 CAF Champions League group stage, with the Algerians winning 2-0 at home and the return fixture ending 1-1.
The return leg is scheduled to take place at the Cairo International Stadium on Saturday 16 May.
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