USM Alger Facing Unexpected Relegation Battle in Final Ligue 1 Matchday
In a shocking turn of events, USM Alger, one of Algeria’s most prestigious football clubs, is now fighting for survival in the Algerian Ligue 1 with just one matchday remaining. A club that recently lifted the league title now finds itself in a dangerous 11th place with 38 points, only two points above the relegation zone.
The team’s 1-0 defeat to ASM Oran has further complicated their situation. Their fate will now be decided this Saturday at home against ASO Chlef, a fellow relegation-threatened side currently sitting 14th with 36 points.
A Crucial, High-Stakes Clash
The final day showdown between USMA and ASO Chlef is more than just another league fixture—it’s a direct survival battle. A draw might be enough for USMA to secure safety, but a loss could drag them into the drop zone depending on other results.
Major Obstacles for USMA
Several factors are working against the Rouge et Noir:
The match will be played behind closed doors, depriving USMA of vital home support.
Six key players are ruled out due to injuries and suspensions, including:
Farouk Chafaï and Abdelkader Laïfaoui (defenders, injured)
Mohamed Lamine Zemmamouche (goalkeeper, groin injury)
Nassim Bouchema (midfielder, injured)
Rachid Nadji (forward, injured)
Zineddine Ferhat (suspended after red card vs ASMO)
A Season of Missed Expectations
For a team that was defending champion just a season ago, this fall from grace has been unimaginable. Fans, players, and analysts alike are stunned by the current predicament of a club expected to be among the title contenders.
Saturday’s match against ASO Chlef will determine whether USM Alger remains in the top flight or faces a historic and humiliating relegation.
