CAF Confederation Cup Final: N'Diaye Claims USM Alger Have Ample Drive for Zamalek Clash

Having overcome Olympic Safi in the semi finals, the Algerian side now confront the five time African title holders in pursuit of a second Confederation Cup triumph.

Zamalek seek a third success in the tournament, and a solid performance in the opening fixture at the Olympic Stade du 5 Juillet in Algiers might hold significance ahead of the return encounter in Cairo.

For the former Senegal international N’Diaye, who led TP Mazembe to Champions League glory 16 years back, the event itself suffices to rally his squad.

He maintains that chances to compete in such high stakes games are scarce in the sport, simplifying the task of firing up his group.

"You know, when you play a final, naturally, you do not even need to motivate the players. They are already motivated themselves," the 69 year old shared with CAF media.

"How many footballers spend their entire careers without reaching this level? I think around 90%, I would say. It is a celebration, a final, and a unique opportunity. Some of them ask themselves the question: will they play another continental final.

"I think that makes things easier for us from that point of view as well. It makes our work with the players easier. On the contrary, we have to control the energy because the enthusiasm is very high, and they want to go into battle.

"But we have to calm minds. The match must not be played before its time."

N’Diaye elaborated that inadequate readiness would not serve as justification, given that his players enjoy optimal setup by utilising the Algeria national teams resources.

He rejected notions that the initial legs result in Algiers would seal the finals fate.

"Preparations are going well. In fact, I would say they are going very well, because we are benefiting from the facilities at the National Teams Preparation Centre in Algeria," he continued.

"We are really in complete calm and we have everything we need to be in a clear state of mind.

"In any case, we are working calmly and peacefully, and we are in the environment we wanted. To sum it up, things are going very well.

"The idea that this final will be decided in the first leg is not correct. There are two matches, and I believe both teams will have to be at their best, and I really mean at their best, in both matches if they hope to win."

From Zamaleks perspective, coach Moatamed Gamal feels his sides background in key African fixtures could offer an edge, yet he avoids downplaying USM Algiers prowess.

"Of course, Zamalek have players with experience and international players. There is also a group of players in the team who previously played in the CAF Confederation Cup final against RS Berkane (in 2024) and won the title at that time, " he remarked. 

"The new elements in the team also have experience and motivation to win their first continental title with Zamalek.

"USM Alger are strong opponents and the match will be difficult. We respect the opposing team and we are following them closely.

"Zamalek’s preparations have been short because of the team’s involvement in the league competition. USM Alger are a respectable team and they have respectable supporters.

"It will be a meeting between two brotherly teams, and I hope sportsmanship will prevail in the match, as was the case in Zamalek’s two matches against CR Belouizdad in the semi-finals.

"I hope the match is played in an honourable manner that reflects well on Arab football."