Algeria Ligue 1: MC Alger begin push towards top

MC Alger marked their return to domestic league play with a 1-0 victory over ES Mostaganem in the Algeria Ligue 1 on Saturday.

Zakaria Naidji’s goal early in the second half was enough for Le Doyen to overcome the stubborn defense of Mostaganem, who failed to end MCA’s undefeated run to start the 2025-26 season. In the 51st minute, Aimen Bougherra’s cross from the left wing found Naidji, who produced a clever flick header for his second goal of the season.

MCA has played three less matches than most of the league due to their efforts in the CAF Champions League. However, without an established contender during this period, MCA only sit four points back of current leaders JS Saoura and the opportunity is there to move top once they make up the games in hand.

Algiers rivals USM Alger were held to a 1-1 draw by hosts CS Constantine while JS Saoura defeated Olympique Akbou 3-2 in a thrilling match. Nigerian forward Alimi Sikiru, acquired from NPFL champions Remo Stars, scored twice including the match winner in second half stoppage time.

Algeria Ligue 1 Results: Round 7

Paradou AC 1-2 JS Kabylie

MB Rouissat 1-1 CR Belouizdad

MC El Bayadh 1-2 ES Ben Aknoun

USM Khenchela 2-0 MC Oran

ES Setif 1-1 ASO Chlef

JS Saoura 3-2 Olympique Akbou

CS Constantine 1-1 USM Alger

MC Alger 1-0 ES Mostaganem