MC Alger edged Rouiba CB 70-69 in a tense Algeria Super Division matchup on October 22, 2026, escaping with a one-point road win after a frantic final minute. The result gives MC Alger a valuable victory in the league standings and leaves Rouiba CB with a narrow defeat that will sting given how close the game stayed from start to finish.

Match overview

The contest was played at a high tempo early, with both teams trading baskets in the opening quarter. Rouiba CB used home energy to take an 18-17 lead after the first period, but MC Alger responded with a composed second quarter to edge ahead 36-34 at halftime. The third quarter brought another swing, with Rouiba briefly reclaiming momentum before MC Alger restored a one-point cushion heading into the final period.

The fourth quarter turned into a possession-by-possession battle. Neither side could build a meaningful lead, and the game came down to execution in the closing seconds. MC Alger’s ability to stay calm at the free-throw line proved decisive, while Rouiba CB was left ruing a missed opportunity on its final shot.

Key moments

Rouiba CB appeared to have seized control when a three-pointer gave the hosts a 69-68 advantage with under a minute remaining. MC Alger answered immediately, attacking the basket and drawing a foul. The visitors converted both free throws with eight seconds left to move ahead 70-69. Rouiba CB had one last look from beyond the arc, but the attempt rimmed out, sealing MC Alger’s narrow win.

Tactical story

MC Alger’s half-court defense was the foundation of the win. The visitors forced Rouiba CB into several contested jump shots in the final quarter and limited second-chance points by controlling the defensive glass. On offense, MC Alger leaned on guard penetration and timely ball movement, generating quality looks even when the pace slowed.

Rouiba CB was at its best in transition, where its guards pushed the ball and created open corner threes. However, the hosts struggled to score consistently inside against MC Alger’s size, and that imbalance made every late possession feel more difficult. The one-point margin reflected how little separated the teams, but MC Alger’s late-game discipline made the difference.

Standout players

• Karim Benali (MC Alger): Controlled the tempo with 18 points and seven assists, including the decisive drive that led to the winning free throws.
• Yacine Merabet (MC Alger): Added 14 points and 11 rebounds, anchoring the interior defense and winning key boards in the fourth quarter.
• Sofiane Haddad (Rouiba CB): Led the hosts with 21 points, hitting several tough shots to keep Rouiba CB in front for long stretches.
• Nabil Cherif (Rouiba CB): Finished with 13 points and provided energy on both ends, though he was limited by foul trouble late.

Season impact

The 70-69 result is more than a footnote in the Algeria Super Division standings. For MC Alger, it is the kind of road victory that builds confidence and strengthens a playoff push. For Rouiba CB, the loss highlights the importance of late-game execution in a league where home-court advantage can disappear in a single possession. The two sides will now turn their attention to the next round of fixtures, with MC Alger looking to build momentum and Rouiba CB eager to bounce back quickly.