Qatar Stars League: Red card compounds difficult season for Algerian striker Baghdad Bounedjah

Baghdad Bounedjah was sent off as Al Shamal SC suffered a setback against Al-Gharafa in the Qatar Stars League, compounding a difficult spell for the Algerian striker.

The incident occurred during matchday 16 of the Qatar Stars League on Sunday, 22 February 2026.

Al Shamal were leading 1-0 when Bounedjah received his marching orders in the 75th minute.

Already booked in the 33rd minute, the forward was shown a second yellow card late in the contest, resulting in his first red card of the season.

His dismissal left his side to see out the remainder of the game without one of their key attacking figures.

The sending-off comes at a time when Bounedjah’s goal return has noticeably declined compared with last season.

The Algeria international ended the previous campaign with 19 goals, underlining his influence in front of goal.

This term, however, he has managed six so far — a significant drop in output that reflects a more challenging period.

The contrast between the two seasons is evident in the numbers.

Where last year he was among the league’s most prolific finishers, this campaign has brought fewer opportunities and reduced efficiency.

His red card in this latest fixture adds further difficulty to an already testing run.

Suspension will now interrupt his efforts to rediscover form, while Al Shamal must adjust without his presence in the immediate matches ahead.

For Bounedjah, the 2025-26 season has unfolded differently from the previous one.

The dip in goals and now disciplinary trouble illustrate a more complicated trajectory for the experienced striker.

As the league campaign progresses, attention will turn to whether he can regain the sharpness that defined his performances last year once he returns from suspension.