USM Alger lead Mamelodi Sundowns 2-1 at half-time in an entertaining CAF Super Cup final.
The Algerian side made the perfect start, taking the lead in the fourth minute when Z. Draoui finished after being set up by Khaldi.
Mamelodi Sundowns responded with sustained pressure and controlled much of the opening period, but USM Alger were more clinical when opportunities arose. The South African club struggled to deal with the visitors’ counter-attacking threat despite dominating possession and territory.
The “Brazilians” drew level in the 25th minute through Rayners, who converted a penalty shortly after coming on.
Their momentum did not last, however. Radouani restored USM Alger’s advantage in the 37th minute, leaving the Algerian club in front at the interval.
The first-half figures underline the contrast between control of the ball and effectiveness in front of goal. Mamelodi Sundowns have enjoyed 75% possession and repeatedly built attacks in the opposition half.
USM Alger, though, have carried the greater threat and have made their chances count.