Former Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Rulani Mokwena has clinched his first piece of silverware in North Africa, leading MC Alger to a historic victory over rivals USM Alger in the Super Cup final on Saturday night.
In a high-stakes Algiers Derby at the Stade du 5 Juillet, MC Alger were crowned champions after a hard-fought 1-0 victory. The win marks a significant milestone for Mokwena. Securing his first title since taking the reins of the Algerian giants.
The match was a cagey affair defined by tactical discipline and defensive rigour. In a game of fine margins, a solitary second-half strike was enough to separate the sides. This goal sent the ‘Green and Red’ faithful into a frenzy.
The breakthrough arrived in the 74th minute via a beautifully worked team goal finished by Zakaria Naidji. Throughout the encounter, MC Alger appeared organised and resilient. They successfully stifled USM Alger’s creative outlets while maintaining superior control of possession.
Since his arrival in Algeria in July 2025, the ex-Orlando Pirates mentor, Mokwena, has operated under a microscope. Fans and pundits questioned whether he could replicate the immense success he enjoyed with Masandawana in South Africa.
DEFENSIVE SOLIDITY WORKED FOR RULANI MOKWENA’S MC ALGER
The MC Alger backline remained impenetrable. They secured a vital clean sheet in what is widely considered one of the most high-pressure derbies in African football.
This triumph silences early critics and cements the South African tactician’s place in the club’s history books by delivering a trophy in record time.
With the Super Cup safely in the trophy cabinet, Mokwena and his side now pivot their focus toward domestic league dominance and continental glory.
If this derby performance is any indication of the future, the Mokwena era at MC Alger promises to be a golden one.
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