Algeria: MC Alger end season with victory before lifting historic 10th league title

MC Alger completed their title-winning campaign with a 2-0 victory over ASO Chlef before lifting the Ligue 1 Mobilis trophy for a third consecutive season and the 10th time in the club’s history.

The champions brought down the curtain on the 2025-26 campaign at the Ali-Ammar Stadium on Friday, where celebrations followed a victory that allowed players, officials and supporters to mark another significant chapter in the club’s history.

Having already secured the championship, the match offered MC Alger an opportunity to celebrate in front of their supporters before officially receiving the league shield. The occasion attracted numerous guests, including club figures from different generations, former players and their families, all invited to take part in the festivities.

The evening was carefully organised by the club’s management, with several tributes and recognition ceremonies held around the final fixture of the season.

Among those honoured was Bayazid, who was recognised for reaching the milestone of 100 appearances for the club. MCA midfielder Benkhemassa also received individual recognition after being named the club’s Player of the Season.

The celebrations, however, were preceded by one final league assignment.

On the pitch, the contest did not reach the levels many supporters may have hoped for. Despite the significance of the occasion, both teams struggled to produce an entertaining spectacle, with clear chances limited throughout much of the encounter.

MC Alger nevertheless remained in control for long periods.

The hosts dominated possession and dictated the rhythm of the game, while ASO Chlef adopted a more cautious approach, focusing primarily on defensive organisation and only occasionally venturing forward.

As the match progressed, MC Alger’s territorial advantage gradually translated into a winning position.

The champions eventually secured a two-goal victory, with Bayazid playing a decisive role late in the game. Introduced as a substitute, he added the second goal in the 88th minute, effectively putting the result beyond doubt and providing a fitting contribution on a night when he was also recognised for his service to the club.

The goal helped seal a comfortable win and ensured MC Alger ended the season on a positive note before attention turned fully to the title celebrations.

Once the final whistle sounded, the focus shifted from the result to the trophy presentation.

A symbolic moment followed when former club figures Bachi, Betrouni and Zenir entered the pitch carrying the championship shield. The trophy was then placed on its pedestal ahead of the official ceremony, creating an atmosphere of anticipation among supporters packed inside the stadium.

The official presentation brought together several notable figures.

Minister of Sports Walid Sadi returned to the pitch accompanied by Kamel Sidi Said, Adviser to the President of the Republic in charge of the General Directorate of Communication. They were joined by Algerian Football League president Mohamed El Amine Mesloug and MC Alger president Hadj Redjem.

The presence of senior officials underlined the significance of the achievement and the stature of one of Algeria’s most successful football institutions.

The defining moment of the evening arrived when captain Ayoub Abdellaoui received the championship shield.

Surrounded by teammates, the defender lifted the trophy into the air, triggering celebrations among players and supporters alike. The scene reflected months of work that culminated in another league title and confirmed MC Alger’s continued dominance in domestic football.

For the club, the success represented more than just another championship.

Winning three consecutive league titles is a significant accomplishment and further strengthens MC Alger’s position among the leading clubs in Algerian football. Securing a 10th national crown also adds another landmark achievement to a history that already includes numerous domestic honours.

While the players celebrated on the pitch, much of the emotion came from the stands.

Supporters filled the Ali-Ammar Stadium and created an atmosphere befitting a title celebration. Chants echoed throughout the venue as fans embraced the occasion and prepared to continue the festivities beyond the stadium.

The celebrations were expected to continue across the capital after the match, with supporters planning to mark the achievement during their journey from Ali-Ammar Stadium to Bab El Oued, passing through key locations associated with the club’s history and identity.

For many fans, the championship represented both a reward for the current squad and a continuation of the club’s proud tradition.

The celebrations are also set to extend beyond Friday night.

Open-top bus parades have been scheduled for Saturday, allowing players and supporters to share the achievement with a wider audience throughout the capital.

As the curtain falls on the 2025-26 Ligue 1 Mobilis season, MC Alger do so as undisputed champions. A victory over ASO Chlef provided the perfect ending to the campaign, while the presentation of the championship shield confirmed a remarkable achievement.

Three consecutive league titles and a 10th national crown ensure that this season will occupy a special place in the history of the Dean.