Algeria v Niger: Brahim Hemdani set to test four new players

Brahim Hemdani is expected to use Algeria’s friendly against Niger in Tizi Ouzou on Monday to continue experimenting with his squad, with four players in particular in contention for an opportunity.

The match will be a welcome change of pace for the new Algeria manager after the pressure of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign. It is Hemdani’s third game in charge and should give him the chance to assess players who have so far had limited involvement.

Hemdani’s early record stands at four points from two matches, with Algeria still unbeaten. His first game brought an impressive 3-1 victory over Zambia, but the performance four days later against Burundi was less convincing. The Fennecs nevertheless showed character by recovering from two goals down to secure a 2-2 draw.

There have also been areas of concern. Former defender Djamel Benlamria, now a consultant for beIN Sports, highlighted Algeria’s defensive uncertainty, a lack of balance in midfield and some of Hemdani’s decisions.

The Niger fixture offers the manager an opportunity to conduct further tests without the same pressure attached to a competitive match. According to Algerian newspaper Annasr, Sohaib Nair, Zineddine Belaid, Abdelatif Ramdane and Adil Bourabaa are among the leading candidates to receive playing time, although further changes remain possible.

Nair and Belaid were unused substitutes in the draw with Burundi. Their involvement would allow Hemdani to rest some of his established defenders while also examining different combinations at the back.

There could also be a change in goal. Abdelatif Ramdane, the MC Alger goalkeeper, was called up alongside Melvin Mastil and the young Kilian Belazzoug, with Luca Zidane unavailable through suspension. Mastil has started the first two matches, but Ramdane may now be given his opportunity.

Bourabaa is perhaps the most intriguing possibility. The 21-year-old was originally selected for the Under-23 side before joining the senior squad as a replacement for the injured Nabil Bentaleb. He has made a strong start to the season with Le Mans, scoring 3 goals and providing 2 assists, and could make his first appearance for the Fennecs.

Having had to prioritise the immediate demands of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers in his opening games, Hemdani now has the chance to broaden his options. The result against Niger will still matter, but the main objective will be to see more players in action and give the new manager a wider range of solutions.