Back
USM Alger head coach Lamine N'Diaye has sent a strong message to Mamelodi Sundowns ahead of their highly anticipated CAF Super Cup final, declaring that his team will approach the encounter with confidence and determination as they look to claim another major continental trophy.
The Algerian giants are preparing for a difficult assignment against the reigning African champions, but N'Diaye has made it clear that his players are not intimidated by Sundowns' reputation. Instead, they are determined to give themselves the best possible opportunity to lift the trophy.
USM Alger head into the final with renewed confidence following their 2-0 victory over CS Constantine in their domestic league fixture. The important result has provided a timely boost to the team's preparations ahead of their trip to South Africa.
Speaking after the victory, N'Diaye acknowledged the quality of their upcoming opponents but insisted that his players must give everything on the pitch to avoid regrets.
"It will be a tough match. We are going to face the best team on the continent. We will play our chances to the fullest so that we have no regrets," N'Diaye said, according to Algerian publication Competition.
USM Alger qualified for the CAF Super Cup after winning the 2025/26 CAF Confederation Cup, while Sundowns secured their place by conquering the CAF Champions League.
However, the Algerian side still have work to do before the showdown, with concerns reportedly surrounding their attacking organisation, defensive concentration and overall team coordination.
These weaknesses could prove costly against a Sundowns side renowned for its possession-based football, technical quality and ability to punish defensive mistakes.
The CAF Super Cup final is scheduled for Sunday, 8 November 2026, at Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria.
With home supporters expected to rally behind them, Sundowns will be determined to secure another continental honour. However, N'Diaye's comments suggest that USM Alger will not travel to South Africa simply to participate. They are arriving with serious ambitions of upsetting the hosts.
Source
https://x.com/KickOffMagazine/status/2117217715383410695/photo/1