A dramatic stoppage-time sequence turned the tide in favor of USM Alger as they secured a 1–0 first-leg advantage over Zamalek in a tense continental clash that delivered controversy deep into added time.
Zamalek thought they had snatched a priceless away goal in the 90+3rd minute when Bezerra found the back of the net, sparking wild celebrations among the visitors. However, the jubilation was short-lived. Following a VAR review, the referee overturned the goal after identifying a handball incident inside Zamalek’s penalty area in the build-up.
Instead of a late equalizer, the decision resulted in a penalty awarded to USM Alger. Stepping up under immense pressure, Ahmed Khaldi showed composure to convert from the spot, sending the home fans into raptures and flipping the script in dramatic fashion.
The late goal now gives the Algerian side a slender but crucial 1–0 lead as they prepare for a decisive second leg in Cairo, where Zamalek will be left to rue what might have been after a night of high drama and VAR intervention.
