Following a lackluster performance by the Algerian midfield in their opening clash against Angola, Djamel Belmadi, the national team’s head coach, is contemplating a tactical reshuffle for their upcoming encounter against Burkina Faso. The spotlight now falls on Hichem Boudaoui, the OGC Nice midfielder, who might prove to be the missing piece in the puzzle for the Desert Foxes.
Despite being benched in the initial fixture against Angola, Boudaoui’s past contributions cannot be overlooked.
The 24-year-old midfielder played a pivotal role in Algeria’s triumph against Mozambique last November, displaying his ability to rebalance the midfield and secure victory in the World Cup qualifiers.
While Boudaoui’s noteworthy performance in Mozambique didn’t secure him a consistent starting spot, his reliability at the club level is undeniable.
Having played under six different coaches at OGC Nice, including notable names like Patrick Vieira, Christophe Galtier, and Lucien Favre, Boudaoui has consistently been trusted and featured in the starting lineup.
His current coach, Francesco Farioli, has been effusive in his praise, highlighting Boudaoui’s versatility and effectiveness.
Farioli has recognized Boudaoui’s capability to play as a defensive midfielder (6) or transition to a more offensive role as a number 8, contributing not only defensively but also adding attacking impetus.
Farioli’s words shed light on Boudaoui’s impact at OGC Nice, stating, “He is a player who offers us many opportunities in the way he projects himself into the box.
Defensively, he is capable of having a large volume, of winning duels, and in the end, that is exactly what we need for a midfielder.”
As Algeria prepares to face Burkina Faso, the timing might be ripe for Hichem Boudaoui to seize the opportunity and make a significant impact.
His ability to excel in various midfield roles, coupled with his recent strong performances at the club level, positions him as a potential game-changer for Djamel Belmadi.
The forthcoming match, slated for 2 p.m., could see Boudaoui’s dynamic presence crucially influencing Algeria’s quest for success.
