Algeria Ligue 1: USM Alger drop points at relegation candidates

USM Alger are now unbeaten in their last six Algeria Ligue 1 Professionnelle matches but supporters will not be satisfied with their latest result, a 2-2 draw at ES Mostaganem on Monday.

Houssem Ghacha’s second half penalty kick saved a point for USMA, who continue to fall deeper into a midtable position. Hosts ESM went behind early but rallied through an equalizer from former MC Alger forward Ali Haroun to level the score by halftime.

Abdallah El Moudene put the hosts ahead early in the second half before Ghacha’s penalty. In the end, it was a disappointing result considering Mostaganem’s position (15th place on the 16-team table) and the fact that ESM was missing defensive leader Djamel Benlamri.

USMA now sit in 7th place with 15 points from 10 matches. With continental duties beginning this upcoming weekend in the CAF Confederation Cup, it will only be more difficult for USMA to gain ground on their rivals, especially when the schedule intensifies in the new year.

The Algiers club begin play in the Confederation Cup on Sunday when they host Ivorian club FC San Pedro in Group A.