Algerian league Day 13: few fans, few changes

2009-11-22

League football was overshadowed this week by the national team's victory in Sudan. MC Algiers stayed on top, with most matches played before empty stadiums.

By Lyes Aflou for Magharebia in Algiers – 22/11/09

[File] MC Algiers finished the round in first place, maintaining a one-point lead over USM Annaba.

Day 13 of the Algerian football league came as something of an anti-climax, amid all the emotions aroused by the national team's successful bid for the World Cup finals. Attendance at many of the weekend's matches was minimal, as fans celebrated the Greens' victory.

While two matches had to be postponed (USM Algiers vs. JS Kabylie and CR Belouizdad vs. USM El Harrach), there was success for MC Algiers, who put in a fine performance on the road against JSM Bejaia. A 1-1 result enabled MCA to hold onto their lead with 24 points, one point ahead of second-placed USM Annaba, who missed an opportunity to win at home against CA Bordj Bou Arreridj when they drew 3-3.

MCA could extend their lead further on Tuesday when they face a struggling USM El Harrach, in a game in hand that has been postponed repeatedly.

Despite the absence of several players called to play for the national team – including goalkeeper Faouzi Chaouchi, who became a national hero after his exploits in Khartoum – ES Setif excelled against CA Batna with a 3-1 win that brought ESS closer to the top of the table. They are now just 4 points adrift of the leaders and have a game in hand.

The big story of the day was provided by ASO Chlef, who beat MSP Batna in a 3-2 goal fest at home. The result enabled ASO to reach tenth position on the table with 16 points.

The misery continued for NA Hussein Dey, who lost 1-0 to AS Khroub. NAHD are now last but one in the table with just 8 points.

MC Oran continued their run of good form with a 1-0 win over neighbours WA Tlemcen. They now have 22 points and are just two points off the lead. USM Blida drew 0-0 in El Eulma against MCEE.

Day 14 – to be played December 1st – will coincide with Eid. Second-placed USM Annaba will travel to Tizi Ouzou to face JS Kabylie.

League leaders MCA will also have a tough match. They are due a visit from a team with a high reputation: ES Setif.