Coupe d'Algérie: USM Alger escape close call to set up final between Algiers giants

Photo Credit: USM Alger

The Coupe d'Algérie trophy will stay in Algiers for a second consecutive year after two clubs from the Algerian capital emerged victorious on Tuesday in the semifinals.

In the opening match, defending champions CR Belouizdad progressed to a third consecutive final in the competition after edging fellow top flight side MC El Bayadh by a 1-0 score. Abderrahmane Meziane skillfully received a pass and finished for his sixth goal of the season in all competitions.

USM Alger won by the same score against second tier side USM Harrach later on Tuesday but it was far from easy for USMA. The eight-time cup champions, who continue to struggle to create goals regularly, were held to a scoreless draw through ninety minutes and needed extra time to progress.

Captain and defender Adem Alilet scored from the spot at the end of the first period. It will be a small bit of redemption for Alilet who failed to convert his penalty kick as USMA were dumped out of the CAF Confederation Cup quarterfinals by fellow Algerian club CS Constantine.

USMA will return to league play on Saturday with a Ligue 1 clash against fellow top-four club JS Kabylie. CR Belouizdad, currently second place and only one point behind leaders MC Alger, will host ES Mostaganem.