USM Alger captain Zinedine Belaid has admitted they are aware of the threats posed by Al Ahly when the two sides face off in Saudi Arabia on Friday.
The champions of the CAF Confederation Cup will come up against Al Ahly, winners of the CAF Champions League in a highly-anticipated African duel to be played in Taif, Saudi Arabia on Friday, September 15.
“The confrontation will be difficult, as we will meet an experienced Egyptian club. It is considered a well-known team on the African and international scene, God willing We will live up to the responsibility placed on us and make our supporters and the nation proud,” Belaid told CAFOnline, adding: “The players know what awaits them. We are aware of the extent of the responsibility, and we hope that we will be very prepared that day. They are an experienced side but for us, it’s about getting a second continental title and starting off the new season on a good note and this is a big motivation for us. Irrespective of who we are playing.”
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On whether USM are ready to face the Egyptian giants, Belaid said: “We started our preparations about a month ago, and we have been working hard ever since. Our preparations have been made, and we hope to be 100% ready come the big day,” adding: “Yes, this is for sure. We achieved a continental title and we will also face a big club like Al-Ahly who won the CAF Champions League. We will be without a doubt motivated to perform well in the Super Cup and possibly win it.”
On his final message to the fans, he said: “I wish the team success in the new football season. The entire season and not just in this particular match, which of course is also important to us. God willing, I will also achieve more as a player.”