USM Alger will look to halt a run of poor form and reignite their push for a podium finish as they host ASO Chlef on Wednesday evening at the 5-Juillet Stadium in Algiers.
The fixture, part of the rescheduled 21st round of the Ligue 1 Mobilis season, marks a significant moment for the capital side following the departure of head coach Marcos Paquetá.
Sitting sixth in the league with 33 points, the Rouge et Noir have suffered back-to-back defeats, prompting a change at the helm.
The club announced an amicable termination of Paquetá’s contract earlier this week, paving the way for interim coach Sofiane Benkhelifa to take charge of a squad desperate for a turnaround.
Facing a Chlef side currently ninth in the table on 29 points, USMA will be eager to capitalise on home advantage and climb to fourth place, at least temporarily, with a win.
Wednesday’s match represents a critical opportunity for the team to regain confidence after a lacklustre showing in recent outings, including a 2-1 loss away to JS Saoura in Béchar.
“We must show a different attitude,” a USMA source told local media. “This is a defining moment in our season, and everyone knows what is at stake.”
ASO Chlef, meanwhile, arrive in Algiers without a win in their last five games and having lost their previous two matches on the road—against MC El Bayadh (2-1) and USM Khenchela (3-2).
Despite their struggles, coach Samir Zaoui’s side are fighting to steer clear of relegation danger
With only a five-point cushion above 14th-placed ES Mostaganem, every point is vital in their bid for top-flight survival.
Chlef will be under no illusions about the challenge ahead, especially facing a USMA side determined to make a statement following the coaching shake-up and a recent string of uninspired performances.
The match is one of six rescheduled fixtures in Ligue 1 Mobilis as teams navigate a congested calendar nearing the business end of the season.
For USM Alger, this is not just another league game—it is a test of resilience, leadership, and their ability to bounce back under new guidance.
For ASO Chlef, it is a battle to avoid being dragged deeper into the relegation fight.
