Algiers – The national team continues its preparations for the upcoming match against DR Congo, scheduled for Tuesday. The latest training session saw the return of Esperance player Mohamed Amine Togai. As previously reported, Togai’s injury was not serious, and his absence from Saturday’s recovery session was merely a precautionary measure. He has now rejoined the squad in preparation for the crucial encounter.
The return of Rayan Ait-Nouri is also anticipated, with his participation against Congo appearing increasingly likely. Ait-Nouri missed Saturday’s training session, visiting a clinic in Rabat. Initially, his condition was unclear, but it has since been confirmed that he is suffering from a severe cold rather than an injury. Reports from Rabat indicate that his situation is not critical.
If Ait-Nouri participates in today’s training session, his involvement against Congo is probable. However, despite the reassuring news regarding Ait-Nouri, national coach Vladimir Petkovic is leaving nothing to chance and has prepared alternatives. Currently, the tactical approach remains uncertain.
Several players are capable of playing at left-back, most notably Mehdi Dorval, who is eager for a starting opportunity. Other options include Ramy Bensebaini, shifting him from his usual position, or deploying Mohamed Belaili or Togai in central defense. Furthermore, Youcef Atal has experience in this role under former coach Djamel Belmadi.
Meanwhile, the situation for Jaouen Hadjam and Samir Chergui has not improved. Both players missed Sunday’s training session, confirming their absence from the Congo match. Hadjam and Chergui will now focus on being fit for Thursday’s training session in the hope of featuring in a potential quarter-final clash against Nigeria. They will be cheering on their teammates as they aim to overcome DR Congo.
Petkovic also had the team practice penalty kicks, preparing them for every possible outcome of the game.