Algeria Ligue 1: MC Alger march past Paradou

MC Alger remained undefeated through five matches in the Algeria Ligue 1 Professionnelle on Wednesday with a 2-1 victory over visitors Paradou AC.

Ivorian attacker Kipre Zunon opened the scoring before former U-17 Africa Cup of Nations star Moslem Anatouf doubled the lead for MCA in the second half. The now 19-year-old arrived at the far post to finish from a cross for his first professional goal in club football with the MCA first team.

It was former Azam FC star Zunon who confirmed a strong start for the defending Algerian club champions in the 11th minute. After a potent attack through the heart of the Paradou midfielder, Zunon was left with a simple finish from close range after PAC goalkeeper Toufik Moussaoui dived to keep out an initial effort.

By the time Anatouf had come off the bench to score the second goal, the victory was all but secured for MCA. Paradou did pull a goal back in stoppage time but their miserable season continued, having yet to secure a victory this season with seven consecutive defeats since opening the league campaign with a scoreless draw.

MCA remain well on pace to become the leaders of the Algeria Ligue 1 as they catch up to the rest of the league in matches played due to their continental duties. They are only two points back of tentative leaders JS Saoura, with three games in hand.

Le Doyen will return to CAF Champions League action on Sunday when they host Cameroonian club Colombe Sportive for the second leg of their qualifying stage clash. MC Alger secured an away goal in Cameroon last weekend to draw 1-1 but will need to be wary of a capable opponent.

Four matches will take place over the weekend in Algeria’s top flight as the nation’s top clubs return to CAF club competition.

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