Former MC Alger star Nasser Bouiche has shed light on the reasons behind MC Alger’s elimination from the CAF Champions League quarter-finals and the factors contributing to CS Constantine’s victory over USM Alger in the CAF Confederation Cup. In an interview with *Sabq Press*, Bouiche analyzed the crucial matches and offered insights into the performances of the Algerian teams.
Regarding MC Alger’s defeat to Orlando Pirates, Bouiche highlighted the importance of scoring goals in knockout stages. “MC Alger performed well in both legs against Orlando Pirates, but in football, especially in the knockout phase, you have to score goals,” he stated. He credited the South African team’s ability to score a crucial away goal in Algiers and defend it successfully in Johannesburg. Bouiche pointed out Orlando Pirates’ solid defensive structure and effective containment of MC Alger’s attacks.
Bouiche acknowledged MC Alger’s overall good performance but noted their lack of decisiveness in the opponent’s area. He also emphasized the need for Algerian clubs to improve their mental preparation for African competitions. “The mental aspect of Algerian clubs needs special preparation,” he explained, noting that players often face unexpected challenges and higher levels of competition in advanced stages of African tournaments.
When asked about the recurring quarter-final exits of Algerian teams, Bouiche attributed it to the weakness of the domestic league. “The clubs need to look for the real reasons for these repeated eliminations in the quarter-finals. I believe the weak level of the league is the reason. There are only 5 or 6 teams with a good level, and the rest are weak,” he asserted. This lack of consistent high-level competition domestically may hinder the teams’ preparedness for the intensity of continental tournaments.
Addressing the reported resignation of MC Alger chairman Hakim Hadj Redjem, Bouiche suggested it was a reaction to the disappointing elimination. “The elimination is the reason Hadj Redjem spoke like that, especially after going to the depths of Africa and being eliminated in such a harsh way,” Bouiche commented. He explained that Hadj Redjem had high expectations for the team’s performance in the Champions League and was disheartened by their failure to progress. Bouiche also acknowledged the immense pressure associated with managing MC Alger, comparing one year at the club to five years at other clubs. He further noted that all clubs treat matches against MC Alger as their most important game of the season, making every encounter a challenging test. Finally, he expressed hope that CS Constantine, under the guidance of coach Khierreddine Madoui, could win the Confederation Cup.
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