Former Mouloudia Club d’Alger (MCA) star Nacer Bouiche has offered his insights into why his former team was eliminated from the CAF Champions League quarter-finals and the reasons behind CS Constantine’s (CSC) triumph over USM Alger in the CAF Confederation Cup. In an exclusive interview, Bouiche analyzed the key factors contributing to these significant outcomes in African club football.
Bouiche addressed MCA’s exit against Orlando Pirates, stating that while the team performed well in both legs, their inability to convert chances proved costly. “In football, especially in the knockout stages, scoring goals is crucial,” he emphasized. He highlighted that Orlando Pirates capitalized on their opportunity by scoring a vital away goal in Algiers and then defended resolutely in Johannesburg. Bouiche acknowledged MCA’s tactical proficiency but pointed to shortcomings in physical conditioning and mental fortitude as factors that hindered their progress.
He further elaborated on the mental challenges faced by Algerian clubs in continental competitions. “Algerian teams need special mental preparation,” he asserted, explaining that the intensity and quality of opposition in the advanced stages of African tournaments often overwhelm players. He stressed the need for a more robust approach to address this psychological barrier.
Regarding the recurring quarter-final exits of Algerian teams, Bouiche attributed it to the overall weakness of the domestic league. “The level of the league is a significant factor,” he stated. He suggested that only a handful of teams possess the quality required to compete effectively at the continental level, while the rest struggle to keep pace.
Turning to CS Constantine’s victory over USM Alger, Bouiche expressed his optimism about coach Khireddine Madoui’s chances of winning the CAF Confederation Cup. He lauded CSC’s tactical approach and determination, which ultimately secured their passage to the semi-finals.
When asked about the reported resignation of MCA president Hakeem Hadj Redjem, Bouiche suggested that the Champions League elimination likely triggered the reaction. He explained that the pressure of managing MCA is immense, equivalent to five years at another club. He believes Hadj Redjem’s high expectations and the disappointment of failing to achieve the African title fueled his decision. Bouiche also noted the added pressure on MCA, with every opponent viewing their match against them as the most important game of the season, making every encounter a difficult challenge. He concluded by acknowledging the immense pressure and challenges associated with managing a club like Mouloudia.
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