South African striker Khanyisa Mayo scored the solitary and decisive goal to steer CR Belouizdad into the Algerian Cup semi-finals at the expense of second division side MO Bejaia at Hocine Ait Ahmed Stadium on Friday night.

Having won the Algerian Cup nine times in their illustrious history, including last season with a 1-0 win over MC Alger in the final, Belouizdad will be determined to defend their crown as they await their fate in the last four.

Meanwhile, after a slow start to life up in the North, Mayo has found his feet and swiftly established himself as an important figure at the Algerian giants. The 26-year-old joined Belouizdad on a three-year deal during the off-season.

The former Cape Town City talisman has so far scored six goals and provided one assist in 30 appearances across all competitions. Interestingly, Mayo scored his first goal for the club against Orlando Pirates in the CAF Champions League in November last year.

For Ramovic, the progression moves his side a step closer to lifting silverware this season. 

The Chababists have set high standards of clinching at least one major trophy every season since the 2018/19 campaign.

The former TS Galaxy mentor was roped in February 2025 and suffered a 4-3 penalty shootout defeat to MC Alger in the Algerian Super Cup final after his charges overturned a two-goal deficit to force a 2-2 draw and took the game beyond extra time in his first match in the dugout.

Ramovic has been tasked with reclaiming the league title after MC Alger dethroned and ended their run of four consecutive championships to clinch their first in 14 years. Currently, Belouizad trails the defending champions by seven points after 20 matches played.

The 10-time Algerian champions played out to two successive draws before the international break and will be eager to return to winning ways when they welcome relegation-threatened NC Magra at Stade du 5 Juillet on Saturday, 5 April.