USM Alger took a significant stride towards securing their first-ever continental club competition title with a 2-1 victory over Young Africans of Tanzania in the first leg of the African Confederation Cup final on Sunday.
In front of a crowd of around 50,000 home supporters, Aimen Mahious gave the Algerian club the lead after 32 minutes with a well-placed header from a chipped free kick, silencing the enthusiastic Tanzanian spectators.
However, the home fans erupted with joy when Fiston Mayele scored a spectacular equalizer eight minutes before the end of the match. Mayele executed an impressive around-the-corner half volley to level the scores.
The elation was short-lived for Young Africans as a defensive mistake just two minutes later allowed Islam Merili to easily tap in a close-range finish, giving USM Alger a crucial advantage heading into the second leg in Algiers next Saturday.
Despite the rainy conditions, the north African side displayed physical strength and tactical control throughout the match. They will now be considered strong favorites to clinch the title in front of their passionate supporters in the upcoming match.
Young Africans' journey in the African Confederation Cup has provided East African football with a rare opportunity for success in continental club competitions. The region has only seen one title triumph in the last 60 years, achieved by Kenya's Gor Mahia in the African Cup Winners' Cup 36 years ago. Other attempts by clubs from the region have fallen short.
To claim the trophy, Young Africans will need to win the second leg by a margin of two clear goals in the away fixture.
On the other hand, USM Alger is also vying for their first continental title. Their closest attempt came eight years ago when they finished as runners-up in the Champions League, losing to TP Mazembe of the Democratic Republic of Congo in the final matches.
