Former Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Rulani Mokwena has secured his first piece of silverware in North Africa after guiding MC Alger to Super Cup glory with a hard-fought victory over arch-rivals USM Alger.
The South African tactician led the Algiers giants to a 1–0 win in a tense Super Cup final played at the Stade du 5 Juillet on Saturday night, marking a significant milestone in his tenure at the club and his first trophy since taking charge in Algeria.
The high-profile Algiers Derby lived up to its billing, with both sides locked in a tactical battle defined by discipline and defensive organisation. Clear chances were limited, and the contest was ultimately decided by a moment of quality in the second half.
That decisive breakthrough arrived in the 74th minute when Zakaria Naidji completed a well-constructed team move, sparking wild celebrations among the MC Alger supporters. Mokwena’s side remained composed thereafter, showing resilience and game management to see out the result.
Throughout the match, MC Alger looked structured and assured, effectively neutralising USM Alger’s attacking threats while enjoying greater control of possession. Their defensive unit was particularly impressive, keeping a clean sheet in one of African football’s most intense derby fixtures.
Since arriving in Algeria in July 2025, Mokwena has been under close scrutiny, with questions raised over whether he could replicate the success he enjoyed with Mamelodi Sundowns in South Africa. This Super Cup triumph goes a long way toward answering those doubts.
The victory not only delivers early silverware but also etches Mokwena’s name into MC Alger’s history, silencing critics and setting a positive tone for the remainder of the season.
With the Super Cup secured, Mokwena and his squad now turn their attention to domestic league ambitions and continental challenges. If this disciplined derby display is anything to go by, the Mokwena era at MC Alger could be just getting started.