USM Alger secured their place in the Algerian Cup semi-finals with a commanding display against JS Saoura at the July 5 Stadium in Algiers on Wednesday, continuing their determined defence of the trophy.

Dominant USMA storm into Algerian Cup semi-finals after crushing JS Saoura

USMA controlled proceedings from the outset, dominating possession and creating several opportunities, although three clear chances went begging early on.

Their pressure eventually paid off just after the half-hour mark when Redouani rose from a corner to punish poor marking in the Saoura defence in the 36th minute.

With the advantage secured, the Red and Blacks dictated the tempo but were unable to add to their lead before the break.

JS Saoura, known for their expansive and attacking style, adopted an unusually cautious approach.

Almost the entire side retreated into defence, limiting space and relying on sporadic counter-attacks in search of an equaliser.

The contrast in styles was striking. While USMA pushed forward with intent, the Béchar side remained compact, defending deep and waiting for openings that never fully materialised.

Despite their efforts to regroup and frustrate their opponents, Saoura struggled to replicate the attacking flair that has defined their league performances.

For the defending champions, the victory reinforces their strong run in the cup competition, even as their league campaign continues to draw scrutiny.

The result marks a third consecutive semi-final appearance for USMA, underlining their consistency on the domestic cup stage.

Elsewhere, CA Batna narrowly booked their place in the last four after edging past MC Saïda 1-0 at the Stade du 1er Novembre in Batna.

Boumerzoug handed the hosts the lead in the 17th minute, capping an early spell of dominance.

MC Saïda, who had travelled approximately 1,000 kilometres for the fixture, appeared less physically sharp but remained organised, choosing to sit back and counter rather than chase the game.

The decisive moment of the second half arrived in the 54th minute when Baroud was shown a red card following a VAR review for a reckless challenge on striker Toumi, reducing Saïda to ten men.

Batna pressed for a second goal but ultimately settled for protecting their slender advantage as the contest drew to a close.

The Ligue 2 amateur leaders advanced on merit and will now meet USMA in the semi-finals.

In the other last-four tie, CS Constantine face CR Belouizdad.

The semi-finals are scheduled for 7 April, with the final planned for 2 May, subject to confirmation.