Pitch invasion and clashes delay Olympique de Safi v USM Alger semi-final | OneFootball

Serious disorder delayed kick-off by around one hour 20 minutes at the CAF Confederation Cup semi-final second leg between Olympique de Safi and USM Alger. A pitch invasion and clashes overshadowed the occasion.

According to L'Équipe, groups of supporters from both clubs clashed in the stands and on the pitch before the scheduled 20:00 local start. Footage widely shared showed sections of home fans entering the field towards USM Alger’s warm-up area and the away enclosure, prompting missiles and fights. Each club blamed the other for the trouble.

Some players and staff became involved as tensions escalated. USM Alger’s players went back to the dressing room, initially refusing to complete their warm-up or start the match.

CAF officials intervened to restore calm and set a new start time. The Algerian team were warned they risked a walkover if they did not resume.

When play finally began, the match finished 1-1 after a 0-0 first leg. USM Alger progressed thanks to their away goal.

They will face Zamalek in a two-legged final in May.

Source: L'Équipe