The controversial CAF Confederation Cup (CAFCC) fixture between USM Alger and Plateau United has hit a new low after the Nigerian champions revealed that they turned down moves by the Algerians to change the kick-off of their second leg clash billed for Algiers on Tuesday.

Plateau United had earlier won the first leg 2-1 at the Soccer Temple in Agege, Lagos before a bribery allegation marred the win.

South African referee Victor Gomes claimed that he and his assistants rejected a $30‚000 offer to fix the result just before the 1st leg prompting him to report the matter to the Confederation of African Football.

Both clubs distanced themselves from the allegation, with USM Alger stating that it was a “hate campaign to destabilise the club”.

While speaking on the issue of kick-off change via NAN, Plateau United spokesman Albert Dakup said: “While we were training at the USMA Stadium, two officials of USM accosted Plateau United team manager, and an NFF official who accompanied the team trying to convince them to change the kick-off time.”

“The move was, however, rejected by the team because investigation shows that the hosts are not comfortable with the timing which is not favourable to them.

“The reason is that the weather won’t be to their advantage, as the weather may not be cold enough before the match kicks off at 6pm (as scheduled by CAF).

“The officials of USM Alger gave a flimsy excuse that most of their fans might be denied the opportunity of watching the game, because of the heavy traffic during the kick-off.” he concluded.