LUBUMBASHI, Congo (Interstat) — AS Maniema Union opened its CAF Confederation Cup campaign with a 2-1 victory over favored USM Alger on Sunday, March 15, 2026, at Stade du TP Mazembe.

Defender Exaucia Moanda broke a scoreless deadlock in the 65th minute, scoring the decisive goal for the home side. Forward Clément Pitroipa had opened the scoring for Maniema Union earlier. Substitute Ahmed Khaldi netted the lone goal for USM Alger.

The result was an upset, as statistical models heavily favored the Algerian side. Maniema Union begins the group stage with a win, while USM Alger seeks its first points.