Algeria is gearing up for a crucial World Cup qualifying match against Burkina Faso, with the Fennecs determined to secure a victory after their defeat in the first leg in Ouagadougou. On November 19, the Mustapha Tchaker stadium will host the Greens as they give their all in the pursuit of the coveted ticket to Rio.
Notably, Ishak Belfodil will be part of the squad for this decisive duel. The player was a notable absence from the initial selection made by Vahid Halilhodzic, the coach of Algeria, for the first leg against Burkina Faso. Belfodil’s exclusion caused some controversy within the Algerian Federation, as there was disagreement with the Bosnian coach’s decision to forego the services of the Inter striker.
Addressing the sidelining of Belfodil during the first leg, Halilhodzic stated during a press briefing on Friday, “I ruled out Ishak Belfodil for reasons that I keep to myself. There are criteria on the ground, complementarity, and several other technical aspects. I have now summoned the player because he has shown interesting things in the last matches with his club.” The coach emphasized the technical considerations behind his decision and highlighted Belfodil’s recent positive performances with his club as a factor in his return to the squad.
