U21 Footballers Win Mediterranean Games Gold for Algeria

Algeria's U21 national football team has secured a gold medal at the Mediterranean Games held in Tarente 2026, Italy. The team achieved this significant victory by defeating Tunisia 2-0 in a commanding final match. This triumph marks Algeria's second football gold at the Mediterranean Games, an accomplishment not seen since the nation's first title in 1975.

A pivotal aspect of this success was the notable contribution from players developed by the Paradou AC academy. Five academy graduates played key roles in the gold medal-winning squad. Among these talents, striker Benahmed Kohili, now with MC Alger, was a standout performer, scoring both goals in the final—the first in the opening minute and the second from a penalty in the second half. Kohili was also recognized as the tournament's best player and top scorer with five goals, while goalkeeper Mohammed El-Koubi of Paradou AC was named the best in his position. Midfielders Houssem Abdelaziz and Salah-Eddine Bouziani, along with forward Houssem Tarzout, also contributed to the team's undefeated run under coach Brahim Hemdani.

The consistent success of Paradou AC academy in nurturing national talent was evident throughout the tournament. Since its establishment, the academy has continuously provided skilled players to various national selections, contributing significantly to Algeria's football development efforts. This gold medal, achieved through a strong, undefeated performance, adds to Algeria's overall medal tally at the Games, underscoring a successful day for the Algerian delegation that also saw two bronze medals in other sports, bringing the total to 20 medals so far.