USM El Harrach secured their place in the semi-finals of the Algerian Cup after a dramatic penalty shootout victory over ES Mostaganem at the July 5 Stadium on Wednesday night.
Following a 1-1 draw in regulation time, El Harrach prevailed 2-0 in the shootout, with goalkeeper Faouzi Chaouchi proving to be the difference by saving three penalties.
Early lead for El Harrach
The match, which marked the first quarter-final of the prestigious national competition, saw El Harrach take the lead in the 27th minute through Billel Bensaha.
The attacking midfielder capitalized on a defensive lapse to fire past the Mostaganem goalkeeper, giving his side an early advantage.
However, ES Mostaganem, despite their difficult build-up to the game—having arrived at the stadium just 20 minutes before kick-off due to traffic congestion caused by a road accident—gradually grew into the contest.
Their persistence paid off in the 63rd minute when Mesmoudi found the equalizer, setting up a tense finale.
Chaouchi stands tall
Mostaganem pressed forward in search of a winner, coming close on multiple occasions.
Early in the second half, Ziane Cherif unleashed a powerful strike that forced a two-stage save from Chaouchi.
Later, Hamri’s curling free-kick narrowly missed the target, skimming past the right post.
With neither side able to break the deadlock in regulation time, the match proceeded to extra time.
Still, clear-cut chances remained scarce, and penalties were required to decide the outcome.
In the decisive shootout, veteran goalkeeper Faouzi Chaouchi delivered a masterclass, stopping three Mostaganem spot-kicks to secure El Harrach’s progression.
His heroics between the posts ensured that his side advanced with a 2-0 shootout triumph, dashing Mostaganem’s hopes in heartbreaking fashion.
Next challenge awaits
With their place in the semi-finals confirmed, USM El Harrach now await the winner of the quarter-final clash between CR Témouchent and USM Alger.
The team will look to build on this hard-fought victory as they continue their quest for Algerian Cup glory.
