Kabylie vs Rabat: prediction, H2H and probable lineups — January 24, 2026
JS Kabylie
FAR Rabat
On Saturday, January 24, as part of the third round of the Champions League, Algeria’s Kabylie will host Morocco’s Rabat. Read on for an in-depth look at both teams and our match prediction.
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Match preview
Kabylie comes into this home fixture against FAR Rabat as a solid mid-table side in Algeria’s Ligue 1 and a participant in the 2025/26 CAF Champions League group stage. Kabylie has displayed a fairly stable performance in the Algerian league, currently sitting fifth in the standings—showing moderate scoring ability and decent defensive discipline, with 23 points and a battle for domestic medals ongoing. This season, Kabylie often creates chances but struggles to convert, especially against tightly organized defenses. In the CAF Champions League, the Algerians have already tested themselves in the group stage with mixed results and are yet to cement their place among the group’s frontrunners.
At home, Kabylie traditionally seeks to seize the initiative, building through the midfield and actively involving their wide midfielders. However, they often leave space behind their defenders when opponents transition quickly from defense to attack—a vulnerability that can be exploited by dangerous counterattacks. The passionate support from the stands in Tizi Ouzou ramps up the pressure on their rivals, but individual execution sometimes leaves much to be desired.
FAR Rabat enters this clash with a solid background, combining results in both the CAF Champions League and the domestic Botola Pro. The Moroccans are confidently holding second place in their league and have proven themselves as worthy competitors in the African Champions League: FAR managed a draw against the powerhouse Al Ahly, showing grit and the ability to fight until the final whistle.
Tactically, FAR Rabat relies on a balanced defensive structure and rapid transitions down the flanks, remaining dangerous both in structured attacks and during quick breaks. The team employs intense pressing in midfield and boasts a high level of physical preparedness, allowing them to dictate the tempo and prevent opponents from building their attacks freely. The visitors are also effective from set-pieces and know how to make the most of their limited chances.
Probable lineups
Kabylie: Merbah, Bott, Izem, Tichtich, Benshah, Madani, Mammery, Mahius, Mergem, Sarr, Hamidi
Rabat: Tagnauti, Bash, Luadni, Mendy, To Carneiro, El Fahly, Derrag, Hrimat, Hammodan, Hadraf, Bouriga
Match facts and head-to-head
- In four meetings between these teams, Kabylie has claimed three wins and one draw
- Kabylie have conceded in six of their last seven matches
- Rabat are winless in three games—two draws and one loss
Prediction
I expect a tight, low-scoring affair: both teams have struggled in attack recently, despite their defensive lapses. My prediction: total under (2.5) goals at 1.67
