Defending champions USM Alger booked their place in the semi-finals of the TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup with a commanding 2-0 win over Rivers United in the second leg of the quarter-finals.

After suffering a narrow 1-0 defeat in the first leg in Nigeria, USM Alger came back strong on home soil, clinching a 2-1 aggregate victory to advance to the last four and keep their title defense aspirations alive.

Malian forward Abdullah Kanou emerged as the hero for USM Alger, netting both goals to propel his side to victory and secure their semi-final berth for the second consecutive season.

USM Alger asserted their dominance from the start, seeking an early breakthrough, and their efforts paid off in the 37th minute when Kanou found the back of the net from close range to give his team the lead.

Despite Rivers United's attempts to level the score in the second half, USM Alger remained resolute in defense, thwarting their opponents' advances and maintaining their advantage.

In the 74th minute, Kanou struck again, doubling USM Alger's lead with a clinical finish, effectively sealing their qualification to the semi-finals.

The victory sets up an enticing semi-final clash between USM Alger and Moroccan side Berkane, promising an exciting encounter between two formidable opponents vying for a spot in the final.