A cloud of disorder overshadowed the CAF Confederation Cup semi-final second leg between and at El Massira Stadium, following pre-match violence involving sections of visiting supporters.
According to eyewitness accounts and circulating footage, a group of USM Alger fans breached security perimeters minutes before kickoff, gaining access to restricted areas near the pitch. Projectiles were reportedly thrown, and stadium fixtures—including dislodged seating—were used during the disturbances. Media personnel positioned along the sidelines were among those affected, with reports of injuries and damage to broadcast equipment.
Security forces and match organizers responded with coordinated intervention, restoring order after a tense standoff. Their efforts ensured the evacuation of unauthorized individuals from the playing area, reinforcement of access points, and stabilization of the stadium environment.
Despite the disruption, the match proceeded following a delay of approximately one hour and twenty minutes. Officials have yet to release a comprehensive statement on the incident, but investigations into the breach and acts of violence are expected.
The episode raises renewed concerns over crowd control, supporter conduct, and matchday security protocols in high-stakes continental fixtures, with potential disciplinary implications likely to follow from governing authorities.
Samuel Ahmadu is a distinguished multimedia journalist and women's football expert with over 15 years of experience in the industry. On the back of domestic engagement since 2008, he began his international career journey at Goal.com in February 2014, where he served as an African women's football correspondent for nearly eight years. During his tenure at Goal.com, Samuel covered major events such as three Women's Africa Cup of Nations (2016, 2018, 2022) and the 2015 FIFA Women's World Cup in Canada plus 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia. His work at Goal.com earned him widespread acclaim, particularly for his in-depth profiles of African football stars, notably Asisat Oshoala, whose rise he documented from her early years to her breakthrough at the FIFA U20 Women's World Cup in 2014. Prior to his role at Goal.com, Samuel freelanced for various print and broadcast media outlets in Nigeria, including Graphics Newspaper, Radio Nigeria, Grace FM, and Savid Newspaper. His extensive experience and expertise led to his appointment to the Nigeria Football Federation's Standing Committee on Women's Football Development from 2016 to 2018. Since February 2018, Samuel has been the Social Media Manager for Nigeria's women's national teams.In 2019, Samuel joined the Confederation of African Football (CAF) as a women's football content contributor and was promoted to Women's Football Editor in 2021. His contributions to women's football continued as he worked as a Media Consultant for Content Creation and Editorials at the 2022 CAF Women's Champions League. Currently, Samuel also serves as the spokesman for the Nigeria Women Football League, further solidifying his influence and dedication to the growth of women's football in Africa.
