MC Alger face a three-goal mountain as Enugu Rangers hold the advantage

MC Alger have to chase down a two-goal deficit on Friday, and a win by two goals would not be enough to send them through outright. Enugu Rangers beat them 2-0 in Enugu on 18 October, so the hosts need to win by at least three to progress without extra play.

Late goals and quiet away days

Alger’s home form has been their strength. They scored five goals in their one home game this season, but they failed to find the net in either away trip. Three of their five goals have come between the 76th and 90th minutes, which suggests they are a side that builds pressure and waits for the late opening.

Enugu arrive in better away shape. They have won two of their three matches this season, and they have also kept the scoring going on the road, with two goals in their away games. Their defensive record matches Alger’s, with two goals conceded in three matches, so neither side has been especially porous.

One meeting, one lesson from Enugu

Their only previous meeting in this competition went Enugu’s way. The 2-0 win in Enugu gave the visitors control of the tie before the return leg, and it showed they can win without relying on a high-scoring display.

Our prediction

Alger will push hard at home and probably create the better chances, but Enugu have shown enough composure to hold their lead. We expect a tense, tight contest in which the hosts find a goal but not the two they need. Enugu should go through on aggregate.

MC Alger 1-1 Enugu Rangers