USM Alger Stun Sundowns At Loftus To Claim CAF Super Cup Crown

Mamelodi Sundowns suffered a disappointing afternoon at Loftus Versfeld Stadium after falling to a 3-1 defeat against USM Alger in the CAF Super Cup final on Sunday, missing out on the opportunity to add another continental trophy to their cabinet.

The Algerian outfit produced an impressive performance to overcome the African champions on their home ground, securing their second CAF Super Cup title following their previous triumph in 2023.

USM Alger made an explosive start to the encounter, opening the scoring just four minutes into the match. Zakaria Draoui finished from close range after Ahmed Khaldi created the opportunity, immediately putting pressure on Miguel Cardoso's men.

Sundowns were dealt further setbacks when Nuno Santos suffered an injury during the warm-up, forcing a change to the starting line-up. Their problems continued when striker Brayan León was forced off in the first half.

However, the Brazilians found a way back into the contest in the 25th minute. After a VAR review resulted in a penalty for handball, substitute Iqraam Rayners stepped forward and confidently converted from the spot to make it 1-1.

The equaliser briefly lifted the home side, but USM Alger restored their advantage before the break. Saadi Radouani reacted quickest after an effort from a corner struck the crossbar, heading home the rebound in the 37th minute to give the visitors a 2-1 lead.

The second half was delayed by heavy rainfall in Pretoria, with difficult weather conditions interrupting proceedings at Loftus Versfeld.

When play eventually resumed, USM Alger delivered another major blow to Sundowns' hopes. Khaldi produced a moment of individual brilliance in the 55th minute, cutting inside before curling a superb effort beyond goalkeeper Ronwen Williams to extend the lead to 3-1.

Sundowns attempted to respond, with Cardoso making further changes in search of an attacking breakthrough. However, the Algerian side remained organised defensively and continued to threaten on the counterattack.

The hosts also thought they had found another goal during the closing stages, but VAR ruled it out after the ball had crossed the touchline earlier in the move.

The result confirmed a memorable victory for USM Alger, who walked away with the trophy and the winner's prize money of $500,000.

For Sundowns, the defeat represents a missed opportunity to secure another major continental honour in front of their supporters. The Brazilians will now have to reflect on a difficult afternoon after being punished by an Algerian side that made the most of its opportunities.

Source:

https://x.com/Soccer_Laduma/status/2119451763992383994