MC Alger has secured a spot in the quarterfinals of the Algerian Cup after a hard-fought 1-0 victory against Najm Ben Aknoun. The match, part of the Round of 16, took place yesterday at the Ali Ammar Stadium in Algiers.
The decisive goal came in the 95th minute of the first period of extra time when Najm Ben Aknoun defender, Islam Shahrour, inadvertently scored an own goal. The match had remained scoreless through regulation time, with both teams locked in a tight defensive battle.
USM Alger was the first team to qualify for the quarterfinals, following their 3-2 victory over USM El Harrach after extra time in the opening match of the Round of 16.
USM Alger’s goals were scored by Loucif (6′), Lekounza (71′), and Ghacha (101′), while Bechou (21′) and Chouki (89′) found the net for USM El Harrach.
MC Alger’s coach, Rulani Mokwena, praised his players’ efforts and resilience throughout the match. He highlighted the team’s technical and mental fortitude. “We faced a very complex Najm Ben Aknoun team,” Mokwena stated. “Kendoussi performed admirably, providing crucial moral support to his teammates. Abdellaoui and Ghazala also had a significant impact on our performance. I thank all the players for their physical efforts and high spirits; I am extremely proud of them.”
Football fans across Algeria eagerly await the remaining Round of 16 matches. The competition continues on Thursday with a match between ES Mostaganem and JS Saoura at the Mohamed Boumezrag Stadium in Chlef.
The Algerian Cup continues to deliver thrilling football action.
