Algeria and Dinamo Zagreb midfielder Ismael Bennacer is set to undergo comprehensive medical tests to determine the severity of an injury he sustained during Sunday’s Croatian league clash against Osijek.
The 28-year-old, who was forced off the pitch in the 23rd minute of the match, left fans and the Algerian national team anxious about his fitness.
At the time of his exit, the score was 0-0, and Dinamo went on to secure a 3-0 victory. This marked Bennacer’s first appearance for Dinamo since returning from Algeria’s 2025 Africa Cup of Nations campaign in Morocco.
Final tests to clarify injury status
Croatian outlet Index.hr reported that Bennacer will undergo an MRI scan on Tuesday to provide a clearer assessment of his condition. “Several reports suggested that the Algerian player suffered a serious injury and would be out for a long period.
“Our sources have denied this, stating these claims are merely speculation at this stage. The MRI tomorrow will clarify the situation,” the report stated.
Dinamo Zagreb coach Mario Kovačević also sought to ease concerns, noting, “He feels better. It’s just a toe injury, but on the other leg. That’s the only downside. I don’t believe it’s a major tear, and we expect him back on the pitch soon.”
Impact on Algeria’s midfield
Bennacer’s injury has heightened concerns for Algeria, where the midfielder had played a key role in the Africa Cup of Nations. He featured in three matches for the Desert Foxes but missed the quarter-final against Nigeria due to injury, a game Algeria lost 2-0.
His potential absence could force coach Vladimir Petković to reassess the midfield, which remains in flux with emerging talents like Ibrahim Maza and Himad Abdelli, alongside the absence or exclusion of experienced figures such as Nabil Ben Taleb and Yacine Titraoui.
Bennacer is on loan at Dinamo Zagreb from AC Milan with an option to buy. This season, he has made 12 league appearances, contributing one goal and two assists.
The upcoming tests will be crucial in determining how quickly he can return to competitive action for both club and country, with Dinamo and Algeria alike hoping for a swift recovery to maintain momentum in their respective campaigns.
