Algeria secured a hard-fought 2-1 friendly victory over Niger on Tuesday. Mohamed Belloumi and Ramy Bensebaini scored second-half goals to overturn an early deficit for the Desert Foxes.
Match Flow
Konan Ndri opened the scoring for Niger in the 12th minute. Algeria struggled to create clear chances in the first half and suffered a significant blow when star player Ibrahim Maza sustained an ankle injury following a strong challenge from Oumar Sako in the 35th minute, forcing coach Ibrahim Hamdani to substitute him five minutes later. The team's performance improved after the break, with Mohamed Belloumi equalising in the 53rd minute from a free-kick at the edge of the box. Ramy Bensebaini then secured the win for Algeria from the penalty spot in the 73rd minute.
Reaction and Injuries
Coach Ibrahim Hamdani expressed dissatisfaction with the overall performance despite the win. Hamdani said: "The Algerian national football team still does not convince its fans under the new technical leadership." The coach added that Maza's injury is a concern, stating: "Maza suffered an ankle injury after a series of very violent interventions from Niger's players on him." The duration of the player's absence from his club Bayer Leverkusen has not yet been determined.
Looking Ahead
This win marks Algeria's third under Hamdani's leadership, following a victory over Zambia and a draw with Burkina Faso. The team's recent results show inconsistent form with two wins, one draw, and two losses in their last five outings. Algeria will next face Togo at home on November 11, a fixture featured in the upcoming schedule. Abdelkader Boulbina received a yellow card in the 83rd minute of the match.
FIFA confirmed on Thursday, October 8, 2026, that the Algeria national team has risen to 28th place in its monthly world ranking. The governing body said this one-place advancement holds particular significance. FIFA clarified that the ranking will be the main criterion for the draw of the African qualifiers for the 2030 World Cup. This follows Algeria's 2-1 win over Niger on October 6.
Manager Ibrahim Hamdani confirmed his confidence in three players on Thursday, October 8, 2026, following the international break. Hamdani said Union Saint-Gilloise midfielder Adam Zerqane "won our trust after his notable appearance against Burundi." The manager added that Bachir Belloumi used his opportunity well, while Radouane Saadi entered the national team's plans based on his domestic form.
Bayer Leverkusen confirmed on Friday, October 9, 2026, that Ibrahim Maza will be sidelined for six weeks. The German club said scans confirmed a lateral ankle ligament injury for the player. The club added that Maza will undergo an intensive treatment and rehabilitation program. This follows Maza's injury in Algeria's match against Niger on Tuesday.
