DRC's Maniema Union defeat Algeria's USM Alger in first leg of CAF Confederation Cup quarters

Maniema Union from the Democratic Republic of Congo edged USM Alger of Algeria 2-1 on Sunday in a CAF Confederation Cup quarter-final first leg.

Torrential rain from midway through the second half in Congolese city Lubumbashi meant passing became challenging, leaving players with no option but to hoof the ball.

In the closing minutes lightning lit the sky over the artificial pitch, adding to the discomfort of the teams.

Adding to the misery of the teams was eight minutes of added time before the final whistle sounded and the players speedily left the pitch.

Disallowed goals

Burkinabe Clement Pitroipa put Maniema ahead on 41 minutes by sending goalkeeper Oussama Bencot the wrong way from the penalty spot.

USM levelled eight minutes into the second half from another spot kick, which Ahmed Khaldi converted for his second goal of the African campaign.

Maniema captain Exaucia Moanda claimed the winning goal on 65 minutes, poking the ball into the net from close range after a free kick.

Both teams had a goal disallowed for offside and Khaldi saw an audacious shot from near the touchline rebound off the post.

Second leg to be played in Algiers

USM won the African equivalent of the UEFA Europa League in 2023 while Maniema have reached the knockout phase for the first time after four failed attempts.

The second leg is set for March 22 in Algiers and the overall winners will face a Moroccan club, Wydad Casablanca or Olympique Safi, in the semi-finals in April.