MC Alger hosts group leaders Al Hilal in a pivotal matchday 5 encounter of the 2025-2026 CAF Champions League group stage. Sitting third with four points, the Algerian side needs a win to stay in quarter-final contention. Coach Rhulani Mokwena voiced confidence ahead of the Friday night showdown at Ali Ammar stadium in Douera.
MC Alger enters this Group C fixture under pressure, having accumulated four points so far in the 2025-2026 CAF Champions League group stage. Their recent 2-0 victory against St-Eloi Lupopo has boosted morale, but only a win against Al Hilal—currently topping the group with eight points—will keep their campaign on track for the quarter-finals. The match is set for Friday night at 20:00 at the Ali Ammar stadium, also known as Ali La Pointe, in Douera.
In the pre-match press conference, head coach Rhulani Mokwena projected determination and readiness. "We are ready and confident," he declared. "The win against St-Eloi Lupopo has reignited our hopes, and we are going to fight to give ourselves a real chance." He labeled the upcoming game as "the toughest match of the season," praising Al Hilal's versatility: "Al-Hilal can press high, play with different blocks, and take advantage of rapid transitions. It’s a well-rounded team with players who are extremely aggressive in duels."
Team updates provide some optimism for MC Alger: Larbi Tabti returns to the squad after absence, though Mohamed Réda Halaïmia remains sidelined with injury. Al Hilal, meanwhile, could clinch qualification with a victory in this Arab derby.
Probable line-ups indicate both teams fielding strong sides:
MC Alger: Gassi, Khelif, Abdellaoui, Menezla, Benkhemassa, Boukhelda, Zougrana – Ferha, Bangoura, Anatouf.
Al Hilal: Farid Ouédraogo, Steven Ebuela, Mohamed Saeed Ahmed, Mustafa Karshoum, Khadim Diaw, Madické Kane, Walieldin Khidir, Abdelrazig Abderraouf Omer, Adama Coulibaly, Mohamed Abdel Raman, Sunday Adetunji.
This clash promises intensity, with MC Alger desperate to close the gap and Al Hilal aiming to solidify their lead.