Algeria's national football team is set to face Burundi in a CAN-2027 qualifier match today at 14h00 (Algerian time) in Bujumbura. The team, led by coach Brahim Hemdani, aims to build on their first-day win against Zambia (3-1) at the Hocine-Aït-Ahmed stadium in Tizi-Ouzou. Algeria currently ranks 29th in the FIFA rankings, while Burundi ranks 143rd. Hemdani expressed satisfaction with the team's performance in the first match, stating that he is optimistic about their chances.
The Algerian team will have to make some adjustments due to injuries and indiscipline. Amine Gouiri, who was injured during the match against Zambia, has been released by the technical staff to continue his treatment. Rayan Aït-Nouri was also released due to disciplinary issues. Furthermore, Anis Hadj Moussa suffered a minor injury during the last training session and is uncertain to play. These changes may impact the team's lineup, but Hemdani remains confident in his players' abilities.
In terms of team selection, the technical staff may not make significant changes to the lineup that played against Zambia. The goalkeeper, Mastil, is likely to be retained, while the defense may see some adjustments. Zinnedine Belaid and Ramy Bensebaini could form the central defensive partnership, with Belaid being more accustomed to playing on synthetic surfaces. Achraf Abada may play on the right flank, while Jaouen Hadjam retains his position on the left.
The midfield and attack may also see some changes. Himad Abdelli and Fares Chaibi could partner in midfield, supporting Ibrahim Maza. Adil Aouchiche may also be considered for a starting role. In attack, the absence of Amine Gouiri and potential injury to Anis Hadj Moussa may lead to changes. Amin Chiakha, Mohamed Amoura, or Monsef Bakrar could start as strikers, each offering different profiles. Adil Boulbina and Bachur Belloumi may play on the wings.
Burundi, on the other hand, will look to bounce back from their 1-0 loss to Togo in their first match. The Burundian team will be under pressure to secure a win against Algeria. The match will be refereed by a Botswanan quartet, led by Thabang Ketshabile. In the other Group I match, Zambia will host Togo, aiming to recover from their loss to Algeria.
The CAN-2027 qualifiers will see the top two teams from each group advance to the final phase. The tournament is scheduled to take place from June 19 to July 17, 2027, in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. Algeria's win against Zambia has put them in a strong position, and a positive result against Burundi will further boost their chances of qualification.
Coach Hemdani emphasized that the team is aware of Burundi's strengths and will approach the match with the same mindset that led to their first-day win. Algeria's national team is determined to secure a second consecutive win and take a significant step towards qualifying for the CAN-2027.
Key points
- Algeria's national football team faces Burundi in a CAN-2027 qualifier match today.
- The team will have to make adjustments due to injuries and indiscipline.
- A win against Burundi will strengthen Algeria's position in Group I and boost their chances of qualifying for the CAN-2027.
