Maniema Union beats USM Alger in rain-hit CAF Confederation Cup clash

Maniema Union of the Democratic Republic of Congo secured a 2–1 victory over USM Alger on Sunday in the first leg of their CAF Confederation Cup quarter-final, in a match disrupted by torrential rain in Lubumbashi.

The hosts opened the scoring in the 41st minute when Clement Pitroipa converted a penalty, sending USM Alger goalkeeper Oussama Bencot the wrong way.

The Algerian side responded shortly after the break, with Ahmed Khaldi equalising from the penalty spot to register his second goal of the competition.

Maniema Union regained the lead in the 65th minute when captain Exaucia Moanda finished from close range following a free kick, giving the Congolese club a narrow advantage heading into the return leg.

Heavy rain in the second half made conditions difficult, forcing players to rely on long clearances as the pitch became increasingly waterlogged. Lightning above the stadium and eight minutes of added time added further tension to the closing moments.

Both teams also had goals ruled out for offside, while Khaldi came close to scoring again with a long-range attempt that struck the post.

The second leg is scheduled for March 22 in Algiers, where the winner on aggregate will advance to the semi-finals to face Moroccan side Wydad Casablanca or Olympique Safi.

Source: Newstimehub