USM Alger vs MC Alger Prediction: The Algiers Derby will witness less than two goals

USM Alger will square off against MC Alger at the Nelson Mandela Stadium on Friday. The Algiers Derby have witnessed less than two goals over the last three meetings; however, we expect another cagey encounter between both teams.

USM Alger (5th)

Last five games: WLLWD

The CAF Confederation Cup winner USM Alger failed to impress as they were held to a goalless draw against MC Oran. USM Alger were tipped to win the encounter, having won their last five games at home. The stalemate against MC Oran means they must secure all the points here to stand a chance of playing in the continental tournament. USM Alger haven’t been bad all season in the league, picking up thirty-six points from a combined sixty-nine. USM Alger have won eight and drawn four at home this season.

MC Alger (4th)

Last five games: DWDWL

The visitor suffered a defeat for the first time in nine games against JS Kabylie. MC Alger bowed to a more desperate team who had to win for them to stand a chance of surviving relegation. Before then, MC Alger played eight games, scoring five times while conceding a goal. They have been shy in front of goals but have been solid defensively. MC Alger have picked up eight points over the previous five games in all competitions, and a win here will see them return to the third spot. MC Alger's away form has been great, with three wins, four draws and five losses in the last twelve matches.

Expert Betting Tips

Over their last twenty meetings, USM Alger have recorded six wins while MC Alger have won five and nine games ending in a deadlock. There have been under 2.5 goals scored in their last three meetings. USM Alger have a tough hurdle to overcome as they play one of their remaining two outstanding games. They failed to break the deadlock against MC Oran in their most recent match and head here with another opportunity to rewrite their mistakes. They must now win here at all costs to stand a chance of playing in next year’s CAF tournament. On the contrary, MC Alger have struggled in front of goals, with five goals in their previous nine games. The visitors will approach this game with the hope of getting a point at least; however, we believe the home side will prove too strong here; bet on a home win in either half for 1.69.

We expect the home side to win or draw and score less than two goals for 2.30.

Both sides will settle for a halftime draw here for 1.78.

Good luck!