MC Alger boosted their chances of reaching the quarter-finals with a 1-0 win over TP Mazembe in their Friday TotalEnergies CAF Champions League Group A encounter.
Akram Bouras scored the crucial goal from the penalty spot in the 36th minute at the Stade 5 Juillet 1962, taking Mouloudia to eight points and solidifying their hold on second place in the group.
Meanwhile, TP Mazembe’s elimination from the competition was confirmed. They remain winless, with just two points from their matches. The game began with both teams struggling to assert control. Mazembe had the first significant chance in the 22nd minute, but Bongeli Beenga’s cross failed to find a teammate.
Mouloudia capitalized on their opportunity in the 36th minute when Tayeb Meziani was fouled in the box, prompting referee, Abongile Tom to award a penalty.
Bouras confidently converted the spot-kick, sending the ball to the top center of the net and sparking jubilant celebrations among the home supporters.
Mazembe displayed more urgency in the second half but struggled with accuracy in front of goal. Jean Diouf came close in the 73rd minute, but Mouloudia’s goalkeeper Abdelkader Menezla made an outstanding save to preserve the lead.
Mouloudia had opportunities to extend their advantage in the closing moments, but efforts from Zakaria Naidji and Andy Delort hit the woodwork, leaving the scoreline unchanged.
With Al Hilal of Sudan already through to the quarter-finals, MC Alger’s victory sets up a decisive final group-stage matchday. The Algerian side will face Young Africans in Dar es Salaam, who currently sit third in the group with four points.
TP Mazembe’s disappointing campaign concludes with a home match against Al Hilal, where pride will be their only motivation.
