USM Alger regained their position at the top of Ligue 1 with a crucial 2-0 victory over JS Saoura in a behind-closed-doors encounter at the 05-July-1962 Stadium in Algiers. The match, part of the 9th round of the championship, saw goals from Salim Boukhenchouche and Aymen Mahious, allowing the Red and Black to bounce back after two consecutive draws against ASO Chlef and JS Kabylie.
The game kicked off at 5:30 p.m., and USMA wasted no time asserting their dominance. The breakthrough came in the 19th minute when Boukhenchouche capitalized on a well-delivered corner by Benzaza.
Positioned perfectly at the near post, he executed a precise header that caught the JS Saoura goalkeeper off guard, putting USMA ahead.
The hosts maintained control for the remainder of the half, entering the break with a deserved 1-0 lead.
Belkacemi Seals the Win
The second half saw USMA continuing to press their advantage, and their persistence paid off in the 65th minute. A penalty was awarded by referee Mechaïria after JS Saoura’s Ouabdi committed a clumsy foul on Gassama inside the box.
Aymen Belkacemi stepped up to calmly convert the spot kick, doubling the home side’s lead and leaving their opponents with a mountain to climb.
JS Saoura had an opportunity to pull one back in the 84th minute when they were awarded a penalty, but Boutiche’s effort was brilliantly saved by USMA goalkeeper Benbot.
Despite being overlooked for international duty this month, Benbot delivered a stellar performance, ensuring his clean sheet remained intact.
Return to the Summit
The victory marked a pivotal moment for USMA, propelling them back to the top of the Ligue 1 table. With captain Radouani suspended, Alilet stepped up to lead the team, guiding them to a much-needed win.
The result not only restores confidence within the squad but also sets the stage for their next crucial fixture.
On Thursday, USMA will face a significant challenge against title contenders CS Constantine at the Chahid-Hamlaoui Stadium.
The outcome of that encounter could prove decisive in shaping the remainder of the championship race.
