MC Alger and TP Mazembe are preparing for a high-stakes African Champions League encounter, with both sides determined to claim the crucial three points at the July 5 Stadium.
The outcome of this match could significantly shape the trajectory of both teams in the group stage.
For MC Alger, the fixture is critical to alleviating pressure from the Tanzanian side Young Africans.
Head coach Khaled Benyahia emphasized his team’s readiness and strategic preparation during a press briefing.
We are not here to reveal our game plan publicly,” the Tunisian coach remarked.
We have prepared well and will do everything to improve our chances of qualification.
This match is important, and we have the means to succeed.
We are counting on our supporters to push us to the limit.
Benyahia highlighted the team’s improved offensive options, with players like Andy Delort and Zakaria Naidji now fit for selection.
However, Abdelmoumen Djabou will be absent, though Benyahia is confident in the squad’s depth.
The players at Mouloudia possess the qualities to step up and offer solutions.
Sometimes substitutes surpass expectations because they are driven to prove themselves.
Our group has the experience to make the difference,” he said.
Reflecting on recent struggles in front of goal, particularly in the match against Al-Hilal, Benyahia noted, “We created several chances but lacked the final pass or concentration.
We must improve, even if time is not on our side.
Young striker Amine Messoussa also stressed the psychological and technical readiness required to secure victory.
We must be fully present tactically and technically,” Messoussa said. “TP Mazembe is a physically impressive team, but we are prepared to respond in every area.
Our supporters will play a key role.
Their presence motivates us, and we are determined to win for them and the club.
On the other side, TP Mazembe’s head coach, Lamine Ndiaye, remains cautiously optimistic about his team’s slim chances of qualification.
Football often surprises us,” Ndiaye said. “We are not the favourites and are playing our last card, but anything is possible.
Our defensive frailties this season have cost us dearly, unlike last year when we conceded none in this competition.
The Franco-Senegalese coach acknowledged the challenge posed by playing in front of MC Alger’s passionate fans but remained undeterred.
When a team plays at home, the crowd can be their strength. But if things go wrong, that same crowd can turn against them,” he added.
TP Mazembe goalkeeper Ibrahim Monkouro echoed Ndiaye’s confidence, downplaying the impact of the home crowd.
“It’s 11 against 11 on the pitch. The supporters don’t affect us. We are here to win and will give everything to achieve that,” Monkouro said.
As both teams prepare for this pivotal clash, the stakes are high, with qualification hopes hanging in the balance.
The match promises to be a thrilling contest between two determined sides.
