USM Alger faces a crucial test on Wednesday as they take on USM Khenchela in a Ligue 1 clash at the Nelson Mandela Stadium in Baraki.
Struggling for form in recent weeks, the hosts cannot afford another setback in their pursuit of a strong league finish.
After securing just two points from their last three league fixtures, USM Alger finds itself in a difficult situation.
For a club of its stature, anything less than a win against USM Khenchela would deepen concerns among fans and further dent their hopes for the season.
With kick-off scheduled for 16:00 GMT, the pressure is on the Usmistes to produce a response and regain momentum.
USM Khenchela, currently ninth in the standings with 20 points, sits just two points behind their sixth-placed opponents.
A victory would see them leapfrog USM Alger, adding further motivation for the visitors.
They have already proven capable of defeating their rivals, having secured a narrow 1-0 win when the sides met on February 16, 2024.
Despite their recent struggles, USM Alger must reaffirm their credentials as a top club and demonstrate resilience.
A positive result would not only restore confidence but also keep them within touching distance of the title race.
With both teams eager to secure maximum points, the encounter promises to be a hard-fought battle.
The outcome could have significant implications on the standings, making it a must-watch fixture in the Algerian top flight.
