USM Alger held by 10-man Safi in Confederation Cup semi-final

Played at the 5 July Stadium in Algiers, the match produced plenty of drama despite the lack of goals, with VAR playing a decisive role. 

USM Alger were twice denied by VAR, including efforts from Zakaria Draoui and Hussein Dehiri, while Abdelrahman Khaldi was booked for simulation after a penalty review.

Olympique Safi remained disciplined defensively and held firm even after goalkeeper Hamza Hamiani was sent off late on.

With the contest still wide open, both sides will head into the second leg with everything to play for.