CAF Confederations Cup: Constantine, USMA share Spoils in Algerian derby

Constantine Sports Club and USM Alger shared the spoils in a highly tactical Algerian derby on Wednesday evening’s TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup quarter-final clash played at the Hamlaoui Stadium in Constantine.

The hosts, with the backing of the CS Constantine faithful were the first to draw blood on the 29th minute through a well taken strike from Mounder Temine much to the delight of the green and black of Constantine.

The hosts could have levelled matters in the 40th minute when Riyad Ben Ayad almost found the back of the net but was unfortunate to be denied.

Going into the break, the CS Constantine looked to be well in control of the tie, with a number of good goalscoring opportunities coming their way.

They were punished for not converting their chances towards the closing stages when USMA’s Kevin Mondeko drew level in the 73rd minute to break the hearts of the hosts.

The late goal sees the former champions going back to Algers with a confidence boosting draw that will put them in a slightly advantageous position when they hosts their Algerian counterparts next week in the return leg.

The second leg will take place at the 5 July Stadium in Algiers.