USMA stuns MCA in derby comeback to end 40-Year cup drought

In a thrilling Algiers derby packed with intensity and late drama, USM Alger stormed back from halftime to defeat MC Alger 63-57 and lift the 2026 Algerian Women’s Basketball Cup on Friday night.

Trailing 33-26 at the break, the Red et black flipped the script with a fearless second-half display, powered by standout performances from Yahou Hadjer and Reguig Neyla, who dropped 18 points each. Fantazi Radia added 14 points and key assists as USMA dominated the closing minutes to seal a memorable comeback victory at the Mohamed-Boudiaf Olympic Complex.

The win ends a 40-year wait for USMA’s third Algerian Cup title, their first since 1986, while MCA missed the chance to claim an eighth crown.