Algerian Cup Final: MO Béjaïa and RC Arbaâ Set for Historic Clash in Blida
The 51st edition of the Algerian Cup final will see a historic showdown on Saturday as MO Béjaïa and RC Arbaâ contest their first-ever appearance in the competition’s showpiece event. The match, set to take place at the iconic Mustapha-Tchaker Stadium in Blida, marks a significant milestone for both clubs — just two seasons after gaining promotion to Algeria’s top flight.
RC Arbaâ reached the final after a tense semi-final against ASO Chlef, eventually prevailing 3-0 in a penalty shootout following a goalless draw. Meanwhile, MO Béjaïa edged out giants ES Sétif, also on penalties (6-5) after a 1-1 stalemate, to book their place in the final.
The encounter is expected to be fiercely contested, with both teams determined to carve their names into Algerian football history. For MO Béjaïa captain Nassim Dehouche, the final represents more than just a match — it’s a once-in-a-generation opportunity.
“A final is often decided by the smallest of margins, and I think that will be the case again on Saturday,” Dehouche told Algeria’s national news agency APS. “It’s up to us to stay focused from the first whistle to the last.”
MO Béjaïa are still chasing their first major title since the club’s founding over six decades ago. For Dehouche and his teammates, the final offers a chance to bring long-awaited silverware to the city.
“We’ve waited 60 years for this,” said the defensive midfielder. “We, the players, have an incredible opportunity to enter the club’s history. It won’t be easy, but we are absolutely determined to give everything to fulfil the dream of an entire city.”
Despite their cup heroics, MO Béjaïa arrive at the final amid a troubling run of form in the league. The team has lost four of its last five league matches, raising concerns about momentum heading into such a crucial fixture.
Dehouche, however, insists that the players have put recent struggles behind them.
“Yes, our league results have been disappointing,” he admitted. “But believe me, we’ve moved past that. The squad made a pact to focus solely on the final. We’ve learned our lesson and we’re ready for the battle.”
With history at stake and both sides hungry for their first taste of national glory, Saturday’s final promises high drama and emotional intensity. For MO Béjaïa and RC Arbaâ, this is more than a football match — it’s a chance to redefine their place in Algerian football folklore.
