Algiers – Algeria’s representatives in the African football scene, USM Alger and CS Constantine, have successfully secured spots in the quarterfinals of their respective continental competitions. Meanwhile, MC Alger must wait for the final group stage round to confirm its fate in the CAF Champions League, where CR Belouizdad’s journey has come to an early end after the fifth round of matches held over the weekend.
CAF Champions League: MC Alger Keeps Hope Alive
MC Alger made a significant step toward the quarterfinals with a crucial 1-0 victory against TP Mazembe at the July 5 Stadium on Friday. With this win, the club remains in contention in Group A.
- Next Challenge: To advance, the team led by coach Khaled Ben Yahia must secure at least a draw in their final group match against Young Africans in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
- Potential Outcomes: A victory could see MC Alger top the group if Sudan’s Al Hilal loses its final match against TP Mazembe in Lubumbashi.
On the other hand, CR Belouizdad was eliminated after a 2-1 loss to Orlando Pirates in South Africa. Despite entering the match with six points, they were unable to overcome the group leaders and former champions, marking their third defeat in five games.
Quarterfinalists from Group C:
- Orlando Pirates and Al Ahly have officially advanced.
- CR Belouizdad’s management had high hopes of reaching the quarterfinals, but their journey ends in the group stage once again.
CAF Confederation Cup: USM Alger and CS Constantine Shine
USM Alger
The reigning Confederation Cup champions continued their dominant run with a hard-fought 2-1 victory in Botswana against Orapa United, ensuring their qualification for the quarterfinals.
- Standings: USM Alger leads Group C with 11 points, followed by Senegal’s Jaraaf (8 points), ASEC Mimosas (5 points), and Orapa United (2 points).
- Final Match: USM Alger will host Jaraaf Dakar on January 19 to secure top spot in the group.
CS Constantine
CS Constantine also confirmed their place in the quarterfinals with an emphatic 3-0 win over Tunisia’s CS Sfaxien at the Martyrs Stadium in Constantine.
- Group A Standings:
- CS Constantine: 12 points
- Simba SC (Tanzania): 10 points
- Bravos do Maquis (Angola): 7 points
- CS Sfaxien: 0 points
- Upcoming Match: Constantine will travel to Dar es Salaam to face Simba SC in a battle to secure first place in the group.
Key Highlights:
- USM Alger and CS Constantine’s progress underscores Algeria’s strong representation in African club competitions.
- MC Alger’s fate remains uncertain, but the team is poised for a decisive showdown in Tanzania.
- CR Belouizdad exits the CAF Champions League, highlighting challenges in maintaining consistency at the continental level.
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Author: Nor-Eleslam
