Algerian Football: USM Alger to Host JS Kabylie in Ligue 1 Match

The USM Alger and JS Kabylie football teams are set to clash at the Omar Hamadi stadium in a Ligue 1 match, marking the 76th opposition between the two teams in the championship. The match, scheduled for 18h45, is a crucial one for both teams as they aim to secure a victory and move up the standings. Currently, USMA ranks fifth with 20 points, while JSK sits fourth with 21 points, just a point behind third-placed USM Bel-Abbès.

Both teams have had a tough time in the continental competition, with USMA and JSK compromising their chances of qualifying for the quarterfinals of the African Champions League. A win in this match would not only boost their Ligue 1 standings but also provide a much-needed morale boost. The two teams have a long history, with JSK dominating the head-to-head record with 26 wins against USMA's 23 defeats, and 26 draws.

However, JSK will be without two key players, Tizi Bouali and Souyad, who are out due to injury and suspension, respectively. Coach Hubert Velud will have to make adjustments to his defense, possibly calling up young players Mekideche or Ait Abdeslam to partner with Nabil Saâdou. Additionally, the team's midfielder Benchaira is uncertain to play due to an injury, although he has participated in recent training sessions.

On the other hand, USMA's coach Billel Dziri is expected to welcome back several key players, including attacker Abdelkrim Zouari and Libyan midfielder Muaid Elllafi, who have been out for several weeks. Zouari, who missed the team's last few matches, has received the green light to rejoin his teammates and is likely to feature in the match against JSK.

The return of Zouari and Elllafi provides more options for USMA, who are seeking a win to boost their chances of a podium finish. The team will also have to focus on their upcoming match against ASO Chlef on January 20. Meanwhile, JSK will host MC Oran at the 1st November stadium in Tizi Ouzou, but the match will be played behind closed doors.

JSK's coach, Hubert Velud, expressed optimism about the team's chances, stating that Kenyan attacker Juma, who has been out with an injury, could feature in the match. Velud confirmed that Juma has made significant progress and could be included in the squad, although he is not yet at 100% fitness.

The match between USMA and JSK promises to be an exciting one, with both teams eager to secure a win and improve their standings in Ligue 1. The outcome will likely have a significant impact on the team's morale and their chances of achieving their season goals.

Key points

• - USM Alger and JS Kabylie face off in a crucial Ligue 1 match at the Omar Hamadi stadium. - Both teams have had a tough time in the continental competition, compromising their chances of qualifying for the quarterfinals of the African Champions League. - The match could see the return of key players for both teams, including Abdelkrim Zouari and Muaid Elllafi for USMA, and Juma for JSK.