The Algerian national football team, known as the Fennecs, is set to face a significant challenge ahead of their entry into the CAN 2027 qualifiers against Zambia on September 25 at the Hocine Aït Ahmed stadium in Tizi-Ouzou. The team will be without a key player, midfielder Nabil Bentaleb, who got injured during a match for his club Lille in the French Ligue 1 on Sunday. The Algerian Football Federation (FAF) announced Bentaleb's withdrawal from the team's first training camp under new coach Brahim Hemdani on Monday, September 21.
Nabil Bentaleb, aged 31, has been an essential element in the Algerian team's setup, having participated in the 2025 CAN in Morocco and the 2026 World Cup in the United States, where he was often fielded as a starter. His absence deprives the team of an experienced player in the midfield. The FAF did not provide details about the nature or severity of Bentaleb's injury but confirmed that he would not be part of the upcoming training camp.
To compensate for Bentaleb's absence, coach Brahim Hemdani has called up Adil Bourabaa, a 21-year-old midfielder from Le Mans FC. This move aims to bolster the team's midfield options ahead of the crucial qualifier against Zambia. Bourabaa's inclusion provides an opportunity for the young player to gain international experience and contribute to the team's efforts in the qualifiers.
The Algerian team is set to face Zambia in a critical match for the CAN 2027 qualifiers. A win would be essential for Algeria to advance in the competition and maintain their chances of qualifying. The team has been preparing for this match under the new coach, Brahim Hemdani, who is tasked with leading the Fennecs to success in the upcoming tournaments.
Nabil Bentaleb's injury is a significant blow to the Algerian team's midfield, where he played a vital role. His experience and skills will be missed in the upcoming match against Zambia. The team's ability to adapt to his absence and find an effective replacement will be crucial in determining their success in the qualifiers.
Adil Bourabaa's call-up to the national team is a notable opportunity for the young player to showcase his talents on the international stage. At 21 years old, Bourabaa is considered a promising talent in Algerian football, and his inclusion in the team could be a strategic move to integrate fresh talent into the squad.
The Algerian Football Federation has confirmed that Bentaleb's replacement, Adil Bourabaa, will join the team for the upcoming training camp. The FAF's decision to call up Bourabaa demonstrates their efforts to provide opportunities for young players and ensure the team's competitiveness in the face of challenges such as Bentaleb's injury.
Key points
- Algeria's national football team loses key midfielder Nabil Bentaleb due to injury ahead of CAN 2027 qualifiers against Zambia.
