Cash-strapped Egyptian giants Zamalek are chasing a record $4 million CAF Confederation Cup prize as they face USM Alger in the two-leg final starting Saturday in Algiers. The return is set for Cairo on May 16, with both clubs aiming to add to their continental honours.
CAF recently doubled prize money, a timely boost for Zamalek who remain Africa’s second most decorated club with 13 titles but are weighed down by $6.5m debts. Egyptian media report unpaid transfer fees to Oleksandriya for Brazilian striker Juan Bezerra, while former coaches Christian Gross and José Gomes have sought FIFA’s help over outstanding wages.
Zamalek, winners in 2019 and 2024, would equal the record of three Confederation Cup triumphs if they prevail, also booking a Super Cup clash worth $500,000 against either Mamelodi Sundowns or FAR Rabat. USM, champions in 2023, reached the final after edging Olympique Safi on away goals in a semifinal marred by crowd trouble.
North African dominance continues, with 17 of 22 past winners from the region. This season six of the eight quarterfinalists and all four semifinalists came from the north. Zamalek advanced by eliminating Chabab Belouizdad, while USM relied on defensive resilience and captain Raadi Sadouani’s leadership.
Zamalek’s Omar Gaber will lead a side that has scored 17 goals in Africa this season, with Bezerra and Seifeddine Jaziri netting four each. USM’s line-up blends local and foreign talent, including Cameroonian defender Che Malone. Whatever the outcome, both clubs are assured of continental football next season through domestic qualification.
