MC Alger host Al Hilal today in a decisive CAF Champions’ League Group C return leg at Ali Amar Stadium, with the Algerian side looking to overturn a 2–1 deficit from the first meeting.
The Sudanese champions took the upper hand in the first leg, played at Amahoro Stadium in Kigali, where Al Hilal have been staging their home matches due to the ongoing conflict in Sudan.
Al Hilal struck first just before the break through Captain Abdelrazig Omer, who finished calmly after a well-timed assist from Jean-Claude Girumugisha. MC Alger responded after half-time, drawing level in the 53rd minute when Mustafa Karshom inadvertently turned Oussama Benhaoua’s driven shot into his own net.
The visitors, however, found a late winner. Mohamed Abdelrahman restored Al Hilal’s lead in the 75th minute, before the Sudanese side was reduced to ten men following the dismissal of Salaheldin Alhassan in the closing stages. Despite the setback, Al Hilal held on to secure a vital away victory.
That result leaves MC Alger with work to do as they return to familiar surroundings, knowing a strong performance at home could swing. Reports from Algeria said that Ali Amar Stadium will be packed to capacity as tickets for the match sold out.
