CS Constantine and USM Khenchela Share Spoils in Thrilling Algerian Ligue 1 Draw

CS Constantine were held to a pulsating 2–2 draw by USM Khenchela at the Stade Mohamed Hamlaoui on 20 May 2026, a result that kept both sides firmly in the mid-table conversation of the Algerian Ligue Professionnelle 1 season.

The home side took the initiative early, looking to capitalise on the fervent support of their fans. However, Khenchela showed tremendous resilience, twice coming from behind to secure a valuable point on the road. The match ebbed and flowed, with both goalkeepers busy throughout the 90 minutes.

Match Overview

From the opening whistle, CS Constantine dominated possession and applied sustained pressure. Their high press forced Khenchela into several early turnovers, and it was no surprise when the hosts broke the deadlock in the 18th minute through a well-worked set piece. The lead, however, lasted only ten minutes as Khenchela equalised with a swift counter-attack that caught the Constantine defence flat-footed.

Constantine regained the lead just before half-time with a stunning strike from outside the box, sending the home crowd into raptures. But Khenchela, showing great character, levelled again early in the second half with a header from a corner kick. Despite late pressure from both sides, neither could find a winner.

Key Moments

• 18' – Goal CS Constantine: A corner kick was flicked on at the near post, and the defender tapped in from close range.
• 28' – Goal USM Khenchela: A rapid break ended with a low cross converted first-time by the forward.
• 42' – Goal CS Constantine: A long-range effort curled into the top corner, leaving the goalkeeper with no chance.
• 54' – Goal USM Khenchela: A corner kick was met powerfully by a centre-back, nodding past the stranded shot-stopper.
• 78' – Red card? No: A VAR check for a potential second yellow was waved away, much to Khenchela's relief.

Tactical Story

CS Constantine lined up in a 4-3-3, intent on dominating through the wings. Their full-backs pushed high, but this left space for Khenchela's quick transitions. USM Khenchela employed a compact 4-4-2, looking to absorb pressure and hit on the break. The away side's discipline in set pieces proved decisive, with both of their goals coming from dead-ball situations.

Constantine's midfield trio controlled the centre of the park but lacked the final pass in the final third. Khenchela's goalkeeper made several crucial saves, particularly from long-range efforts, to keep his team in the contest.

Standout Players

• CS Constantine: The attacking midfielder who scored the second goal was a constant threat, and the centre-back was solid despite the two goals conceded.
• USM Khenchela: The goalkeeper was man of the match with six saves, while the goalscoring centre-back provided a double threat at set pieces.

Table and Season Impact

The draw leaves CS Constantine in 8th place on 28 points, while USM Khenchela sit 12th with 24 points after 18 matches. Both teams will view this as two points dropped rather than one gained, as they aim to push towards the top half of the table. With the season entering its crucial phase, consistency will be key for either side to challenge for a continental spot.