Fennecs Coach Hemdani Outlines AFCON 2027 Qualification Priority

Brahim Hemdani, Algeria's newly appointed national football coach, outlined his ambitions for the Fennecs during his inaugural press conference. Hemdani's primary objective for his mandate is to secure qualification for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations, a tournament scheduled to be co-organized by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania. He emphasized a step-by-step approach, with immediate focus on the initial two qualifying matches.

Hemdani has officially signed a one-year contract with the Algerian Football Federation (FAF), extending until the AFCON 2027. During his media appearance, he expressed confidence derived from his professional playing career at high levels, stating his comfort in managing team dynamics and pursuing ambitious goals. Hemdani also acknowledged the significant public and media expectations associated with the national team coaching role, affirming his readiness for such pressures.

The coach's first squad selection for the AFCON 2027 qualifiers includes several notable decisions. Among the returning players are winger Mohamed Bachir Belloumi and midfielder Adil Aouchiche. Monsef Bakrar, the Al Ahly forward, has also been included. Conversely, goalkeeper Luca Zidane was not named due to a suspension from the Confederation of African Football (CAF). The squad prepares to face Zambia on September 25 at home, followed by an away match against Burundi four days later, following the international retirements of former captain Riyad Mahrez and defender Aïssa Mandi.