Algeria's national football team made a strong start under new coach Brahim Hemdani, defeating Zambia 3-1 at the Hocine-Aït-Ahmed stadium in Tizi-Ouzou on September 26, 2026. The win marked a successful debut for Hemdani and the team's first step in qualifying for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (CAN). The Algerian team, also known as the "Verts," dominated the match from the start, with Ibrahim Maza and Mohamed Amine Amoura creating scoring opportunities.
The "Verts" took the lead in the 2nd minute, with Jaouen Hadjam scoring after a beautiful individual effort by Maza and a precise pass from Amoura. The Zambian team struggled to find their footing in the first quarter of the match, while Algeria maintained possession and controlled the tempo. Algeria's Amine Gouiri had to leave the game in the 18th minute due to an injury and was replaced by Amin Chiakha.
Despite their dominance, the Algerian team failed to capitalize on their chances, with Amoura and Adam Zorgane unable to score in the first half. The Zambian team, however, managed to contain Algeria's attacks and headed into halftime with the score at 1-0. Hemdani's starting lineup included several new players, such as Melvin Mastil and Mohamed Bachir Belloumi, who made their official debuts for the national team.
In the second half, Algeria continued to press, but Zambia managed to equalize in the 57th minute through Fashion Sakala's goal. The Zambian team's efforts were rewarded, but Algeria quickly responded, with Maza scoring the second goal in the 66th minute. The Algerian team then scored their third goal in the 74th minute, courtesy of Hadj Moussa, who had just come on as a substitute.
The win marked a successful start to Algeria's campaign under Hemdani, who made several changes to the team. The Algerian coach introduced new players, such as Abdelli, Hadj Moussa, and Boulbina, who made an impact in the match. The Zambian team's efforts to equalize were ultimately unsuccessful, and Algeria held on to secure the three points.
The result puts Algeria and Togo at the top of Group I, with three points each, ahead of Burundi and Zambia. Algeria will face Burundi in their next match on Tuesday at 14h00 at the Stade de Bujumbura. The top two teams in each group will qualify for the final phase of CAN-2027, scheduled for June 19 to July 17, 2027, in Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.
The Algerian team's victory was marked by a strong performance from several players, including Amoura, Maza, and Hadj Moussa. The team's next match against Burundi will be crucial in determining their chances of qualifying for CAN-2027. With a strong start to their campaign, Algeria will look to build on their momentum and secure a spot in the tournament.
Key points
- Algeria defeated Zambia 3-1 in their CAN 2027 qualifier on September 26, 2026.
- The win marked a successful debut for new coach Brahim Hemdani.
- Algeria will face Burundi in their next match on Tuesday at 14h00 at the Stade de Bujumbura.
