Benlamri questions Algeria’s identity after Burundi draw and praises Morocco

Djamel Benlamri has criticised Algeria’s defensive display and lack of identity after their 2-2 draw with Burundi, while holding Morocco up as an example for the Fennecs to follow.

The former Algeria defender, now a consultant for beIN Sports, was particularly unimpressed by the team’s performance after they fell 2-0 behind against the Hirondelles before recovering to secure a point.

His comments came only weeks after he was involved in a public dispute with Youcef Belaili over the contractual situation involving the player, MC Alger and Esperance de Tunis.

Despite the draw, new manager Brahim Hemdani remains unbeaten after his first two matches in charge. Algeria opened his reign with a convincing 3-1 victory over Zambia before rescuing a result in Burundi.

However, Benlamri focused on the defensive problems he saw in the second game.

“I did not understand the defensive problems and the huge mistakes in the national team’s defence, as if the spaces had become open streets,” said the former centre-back.

He was equally critical of Algeria’s midfield, adding: “The team had no identity, especially in midfield.”

Algeria struggled badly in Burundi, with Jean-Claude Girumugisha causing problems with his pace and dribbling. The visitors also found themselves two goals down, although they showed resilience to level the match in front of an intense home crowd.

Benlamri, Algeria’s 2019 Africa Cup of Nations winner, also questioned some of Hemdani’s decisions.

“Taking Boulbina off was a mistake,” he said, arguing that the forward had provided movement and attacking threat. He also believed Amine Chiakha could not replace Baghdad Bounedjah on a like-for-like basis.

Although Algeria’s results remain acceptable, Benlamri said he was more concerned by the impression the side was giving.

“Mathematically, the national team’s figures are good, but the team’s spirit is starting to cause concern. We are beginning to feel that the national team is nervous and the manager must give this team a real personality.”

The assessment is a firm one after only two matches under Hemdani, who has collected four points from a possible six.

Benlamri’s criticism of Algeria was accompanied by praise for Morocco. He pointed to the work carried out by Algeria’s north African neighbours and rivals in recent years, presenting the Atlas Lions as an example of continuity and organisation.

The former Lyon player believes Algeria still lacks the identity and personality that Morocco has developed, and suggested the Fennecs could learn from that structure.

Hemdani is therefore likely to face close scrutiny from the outset. His early record is positive, with Algeria unbeaten and capable of recovering from 2-0 down away from home, but Benlamri believes the team’s performances remain well below the required standard.