Algeria: Newly promoted side MB Rouissat hand MC Alger first defeat in Ligue 1

MC Alger’s impressive unbeaten run in the Algerian Ligue 1 came to an end on Thursday as newly promoted side MB Rouissat claimed a famous victory over the defending champions.

The result marked MCA’s first league defeat of the season and a significant statement from the newcomers.

Heading into the encounter, MC Alger had gone 18 matches without defeat and were closing in on their long-standing club record of 22 unbeaten games set during the 2013/14 campaign.

However, their momentum was halted as Rouissat delivered a disciplined and determined performance to derail the champions’ progress.

The breakthrough arrived in the 27th minute when MB Rouissat captain Kheiredine Merzougui found the back of the net to give his side the lead. The goal carried added significance, with Merzougui having left MC Alger on a free transfer before the start of the season to join Rouissat.

MC Alger pushed hard for a response and dominated large spells of the contest, particularly in the second half, but they were unable to penetrate Rouissat’s resilient defence. Despite sustained pressure, the champions failed to find an equaliser as the hosts held firm until the final whistle.

The defeat represented MC Alger’s first setback in Ligue 1 under head coach Mokwena, while Rouissat made history by becoming the first local side to beat the defending champions since April 2025. The victory lifted Rouissat to sixth place on the table, underlining their strong return to top-flight football.

Despite the loss, MC Alger remain top of the Ligue 1 standings with 25 points from 10 matches, holding a four-point advantage over second-placed Olympique Akbou.

With two games still in hand, Mokwena’s side retain control of the title race and will look to bounce back when they face seventh-placed Ben Aknoun two days before Christmas in their final fixture of 2025.