Algeria Ligue 1: Early goal lifts MC Alger, JSK fall to defeat

Defending champions MC Alger earned their first victory of the young 2025-26 Algeria Ligue 1 Professionnelle season with Friday’s 1-0 result at Olympique Akbou.

2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) veteran Mohamed Halaimia’s goal inside eight minutes was all MCA needed to defeat OA, a team renowned for its defense but also known for possessing limited firepower. Rising talent Amine Messoussa produced a dazzling dribble run down the left wing and got to the end line before crossing low for Halaimia to apply the finish at the far post.

While the defending champions triumphed on Friday, the news was not so good for last season’s runners-up. JS Kabylie fell by a 0-2 score to an inspired MC Oran side. The hosts scored twice in the second half to move to the top of the table for the time being, giving them two wins from their opening four matches.

On Friday, ES Sétif defeated CS Constantine 2-1 courtesy of a second half double from Merouane Zerrouki.

Down at halftime to the visitors, the former Paradou AC and CR Belouizdad player rose to the occasion for the home supporters. A delightful strike from distance equalized the match in the 49th minute before Zerrouki popped up again to finish from close range after the hour mark to confirm an eventual victory.

Later on Friday, ES Mostaganem and MB Rouisset played to a 1-1 draw. Mostaganem, led by two former Algeria national team standouts in goalkeeper Raïs M’Bolhi and Djamel Benlamri, got off to a strong start but were forced to settle for a draw.

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