ALGIERS, Algeria (Interstat) — A key Algerian Ligue 1 clash is set for Monday as MC Alger hosts CS Constantine at Stade du 5 Juillet, with both sides looking to build momentum entering the new year.

The matchup pits a surging MC Alger side against a CS Constantine team seeking consistency on the road. MC Alger, the home side, enters on a high note after a convincing 2-0 victory over ES Setif on Dec. 29. That win followed a 1-0 home triumph against ES Ben Aknoun on Dec. 23, though it was preceded by a surprising 1-0 loss at MB Rouisset on Dec. 18. Overall, MC Alger has shown strong form, losing just once in its last five domestic outings.

CS Constantine arrives after a scoreless draw at USM Khenchela on Dec. 26. Its form has been mixed, with a solid 2-0 win over Paradou AC on Dec. 19 but a lack of results away from home. Constantine’s road record this season is a concern, featuring losses at MC Oran, ES Ben Aknoun, ES Setif and ES Mostaganem. Its only away point in league play came from a 1-1 draw with USM Alger in early October.

Historically, matches between these clubs are tightly contested. The Interstat game simulator projects a 1-1 draw for Monday’s encounter, a result that would extend Constantine’s struggle for a road win while halting MC Alger’s recent winning streak at home.

MC Alger will look to capitalize on its home pitch advantage and recent defensive solidity, having kept clean sheets in its last two matches. CS Constantine will aim to translate its occasional offensive bursts, like the two-goal performances against Paradou AC and Oued Akbou, into a crucial away result.

Kickoff is scheduled for 8 p.m. local time (1900 GMT) on Jan. 5, 2026. The game is part of the 17th round of the Algerian Ligue 1 season.