Former Orlando Pirates coach Josef Zinnbauer has finally bagged his first win in charge of Algerian outfit JS Kabylie after his side claimed a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Paradou AC in the Algerian Ligue 1 on Friday night.

Redouane Berkane opened the scoring for Zinnbauer’s side three minutes from kickoff as they took the lead into halftime. Paradou equalized through Ouanisse Bouzahzah in the 71st minute before Mohamed Amine Madani restored the lead from the spot 11 minutes later for maximum points.

With the win, Kabylie moved up to fourth place with 29 points accumulated after 18 matches played in the Algerian top-flight. They are level on points with USM Alger, three behind CR Belouizdad and eight points behind log leaders MC Alger.

Furthermore, the result saw the 14-time Algerian champions snap a four-game winless run in the league. Zinnbauer’s men will now switch their focus to a trip away to CAF Confederations Cup quarterfinalists CS Constantine in their next league outing on Saturday.

Before claiming his maiden win at the helm, the ex-Pirates mentor suffered a 3-2 defeat to defending champions MC Alger, followed by a frustrating goalless draw against relegation-threatened Olympique Akbou.

The German tactician was appointed in January 2025, replacing Abdelhak Benchika, who has since found a new home at Modern Sport of Egypt after resigning at the Algerian club, citing interference from the hierarchy.

Following his exploits in Morocco where he clinched an invincible Botola Pro League championship and a Throne Cup title with Raja Casablanca last season, Zinnbauer has been entrusted with restoring the glory days of the two-time CAF Champions League winners.

The 54-year-old UEFA Pro License holder has been tasked with guiding JS Kabylie to their first league title since the 2007/08 season. The Canaries finished in a disappointing seventh place last campaign after a dismal 14th place finish in the 2022/23 term – three points above the relegation zone.