Sudan’s Al Hilal Edge MC Alger to Take Early Lead in Group C

Al Hilal Omdurman opened their CAF Champions League group-stage campaign with a hard-fought 2–1 victory over MC Alger in a tense encounter played at Amahoro Stadium in Kigali, Rwanda, which serves as Al Hilal’s home venue for this Champions League campaign. The match kicked off at 3:00 PM on Friday, 21 November 2025, and Al Hilal immediately showed intent. Pushing forward with pace and confidence, the Sudanese side created several early chances through Adam Coulibali, Girumugisha Jean Claude, and Sunday Damilare, who consistently threatened MC Alger’s defensive line. Despite the pressure, the breakthrough did not come early, with a notable opportunity in the 13th minute when Coulibali set up Girumugisha, who narrowly failed to connect. MC Alger struggled to gain control but nearly surprised Al Hilal in the 41st minute when Zunon attempted a long-range effort, which sailed over the bar. Al Hilal’s persistence was eventually rewarded during first-half added time. Girumugisha delivered a precise cross into the box, finding Abdelrazig Taha Yagoub Omer, who calmly finished to give his side a deserved 1–0 halftime advantage. The second half opened with intensity from both teams. However, Al Hilal’s defensive miscommunication in the 53rd minute proved costly. A dangerous delivery from the right by Oussama Benhaoua created confusion, leading to an unfortunate own goal by Mustapha Mohammed, allowing MC Alger to equalize. Al Hilal responded with determination. In the 75th minute, substitutes Ahmed Salem M’Bareck and Mohamed Yakub Abderhman Yousif made an immediate impact. M’Bareck advanced with purpose before supplying a well-timed pass that Yousif converted clinically, restoring the lead for the Sudanese giants. Hilal nearly extended their advantage from a free-kick in the 82nd minute, but MC Alger cleared their lines. The match’s closing moments were marked by heated confrontations involving players and staff from both sides, adding tension to an already intense fixture. Despite the late drama, Al Hilal held firm to secure their first Group C victory, making a strong statement in a group that also includes Mamelodi Sundowns and St Eloi Lupopo.