Abdelhak Benchikha's tumultuous start to the year continues as his new team, Modern Sport, faces elimination from the Egyptian Cup. After leaving his position as head coach of JS Kabylie (JSK) at the beginning of 2025, Benchikha embarked on his Egyptian adventure only to witness his team fall 2-1 to Zamalek during the round of 16.
Modern Sport's struggles weren't isolated to this cup match, as they currently sit at the bottom of the league standings. This puts significant pressure on Benchikha and his squad, and they are desperately seeking to secure their place in the top division of Egyptian football.
This disappointing performance casts a shadow over JSK, which also eagerly anticipates its upcoming match against the CSC. JSK had recently put forward commendable performances, most notable being Redouane Berkane's brilliant goal during the league match against CSC. Celebrated for its beauty, Berkane's backheel goal harkened back to Rabah Madjer's famous 1987 goal.
The wonder goal, scored just 15 minutes after kickoff, electrified the stadium with JSK supporters erupting with joy, contrasting sharply against the shocked silence of CSC fans. It not only cemented Berkane's status as a key player for the team but also reminded many of the legacy of Algerian football.
On the national scene, Madjid Bougherra, head coach of Algeria A’, has been scouting local talent from JSK as he prepares for the upcoming national team assembly. Reports suggest he has preselected five players, including standout Kouceila Boualia and well-rounded defender Lahlou Akhrib, both showing promise for inclusion in the national lineup.
The other preselected players are promising talents Aymen Bendaoud, Fares Nechat, and the dynamic Berkane, showcasing the depth of talent within JSK and Bougherra's commitment to fostering domestic players.
Tonight, JSK takes on CSC for the second time this season, needing to secure points to bolster their title aspirations. With the team ranking just outside the podium, this match is pivotal. JSK reflects on their previous encounter where they were narrowly defeated 3-2 at home, making victory this time around not just about points but also about reclaiming pride.
Adding to the tension, CSC has shown vulnerabilities this season, with two draws and one loss marking their form. Despite this, Zinnbauer remains cautious. He acknowledges the historical challenge CSC presents, as they have been adversaries who have routinely bested JSK over recent seasons. He stated, "On respecte beaucoup notre adversaire qui nousa battus ces quatre dernières saisons, mais il n'y a que les trois points qui comptent pour nous."
Coach Zinnbauer stresses the importance of mental fortitude heading to this match, asserting, "La JSK est un club à pression et moi, j'aime la pression. Мы faison tout pour réaliser le meilleur parcours possible."
Zinnbauer understands the need to adapt tactically and has prepared multiple game plans for the match against CSC. His approach is indicative of the thoroughness expected at JSK, where every match carries the weight of the club's aspirations, reflected vividly as he insisted, "L'aspect psychologique n'a rien à voir, c'est la qualité qui fera la différence."
Meanwhile, Bougherra continues to affirm his faith in local talent and the potential of the JSK squad. The transfer of these players to national duty hangs on their performance tonight as they look to earn their spot to represent Algeria. The ambition and resilience of these players blend with the larger narrative of bringing youth from the domestic league to the forefront of Algerian football.
Merbah remains sidelined due to injury for up to six weeks, but Zinnbauer remains optimistic about the squad's depth. Restoring confidence is key for JSK, as they seek to dominate both domestically and potentially continental fixtures. With players like Berkane stepping up, the future of JSK and their pursuit of glory remains vibrant and promising.
Tonight's match at the Hamlaoui stadium promises to be filled with intensity, ambition, and the hope for redemption for JSK against CSC, where every player knows they must give their all—not only for three points but for the pride of their club and their personal legacies.