BIR EL DJIR, Algeria (Interstat) — MC Oran opened its Algerian Ligue 1 season with a 2-1 victory over crosstown rival MC Alger on Friday, Feb. 20, 2026, overcoming pregame projections.

Playing before a home crowd at Stade Olympique d’Oran, Oran took the lead in the 22nd minute on a headed goal by forward Boubacar Traoré. Substitute Zinedine Ferhat equalized for the visitors just before halftime in the 41st minute.

The match appeared headed for a draw until deep into stoppage time. In the fourth added minute, Oran substitute Ayoub Abdellaoui scored the decisive goal, securing the upset win. The result defied statistical models that heavily favored MC Alger.

The fiery derby featured five yellow cards. MC Alger begins its league campaign 0-1, while MC Oran starts 1-0.