Algeria Ligue 1: Mahious lifts JS Kabylie in narrow victory

Aymen Mahious’ first half header gave JS Kabylie a 1-0 Algeria Ligue 1 victory over ES Mostaganem in the only match on Wednesday from Algeria’s top flight.

The powerful striker leaped up to get on the end of a free kick service into the penalty area to provide the match winner for JSK, snapping a three-match winless streak in league play for last season’s runners-up.

It was never going to be easy for JSK, who have struggled to create goals and were facing an ESM side led by an experienced defense anchored by former Algeria national team players including Raïs M’Bolhi in goal and defender Djamel Benlamri. However, M’Bolhi could not quite get to Mahious’ well placed header which was enough to secure all three points for the hosts.

The result will be a boost for JS Kabylie, who are on the verge of reaching the final round of qualifying for the CAF Champions League group stage. JSK won 2-0 in Accra against Ghanaian champions Bibiani GoldStars and will host the second leg on Sunday, a match they are expected to win.