Nesrine Bahlouli Joins Algeria for 2027 Women’s World Cup

Nesrine Bahlouli, a 23-year-old Al-Nassr attacking midfielder, has reportedly chosen to represent Algeria at the senior international level, departing from her previous representation with France’s youth teams. Bahlouli, who played for France from Under-19 to Under-23 levels and trained with their senior side, is expected to join Farid Benstiti’s Algeria squad as preparations continue for the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil. Her technical abilities, honed through youth systems at OL Lyonnes and spells with AC Milan and Girondins de Bordeaux, are anticipated to bolster the Algerian side.

This significant decision follows Celina Ould Hocine, a 24-year-old Paris FC defender and former captain of France Women’s Under-23 team, who also switched her sporting nationality to Algeria in mid-September. Both Bahlouli and Ould Hocine are expected to be included in Coach Benstiti’s upcoming squad, providing enhanced options for the "Vertes". Their integration underscores a positive trend for Algerian women's football, as the team strengthens its ranks with experienced players from prominent European clubs.

Algeria secured its historic qualification for the 2027 Women’s World Cup by triumphing over Cote d’Ivoire with a 2-1 victory in the quarter-finals of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations on August 8. After falling behind, Algeria mounted a comeback with goals from Ines Khiri and Amira Ould Braham to clinch their spot. This achievement marks Algeria’s first appearance at the Women’s World Cup, building on their prior milestone of reaching the continental tournament quarter-finals for the first time the previous year. The addition of players like Bahlouli and Ould Hocine is poised to further enhance Algeria's capabilities on this global stage.