Algeria’s right-back options widen as Rafik Belghali prepares to return

Algeria manager Brahim Hemdani faces a selection dilemma at right-back, with Rafik Belghali set to return in November but several alternatives now competing for his place.

Belghali missed Algeria’s matches against Zambia and Burundi after receiving a two-match suspension following incidents after the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations quarter-final against Nigeria. The Torino player has now completed that ban and will be available for the two-match meeting with Togo in November.

The 24-year-old remains the leading candidate. His experience in Serie A, ability to maintain a high work-rate and attacking wing-back qualities give him an advantage over the other options. However, his position is not completely secure. Two further suspension matches remain suspended until January 2027, while his early international appearances have not yet made him an undisputed starter.

One of the more experienced challengers is Akim Zedadka. The 31-year-old started for Sabah against Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League and produced an encouraging display despite his side’s 2-1 defeat.

Zedadka, who has previously played for Clermont and Lille, has greater European experience than most of the other candidates. Yet he has never established himself with Algeria, making only one appearance for the national team. He remains largely unfamiliar to Algerian supporters in an international shirt, although his name is already being mentioned as a possible inclusion in Hemdani’s next squad.

Rafik Messali represents a younger option. The 23-year-old Toulouse player is gradually establishing himself in Ligue 1 after moving from an attacking role to right-back. His pace, ability to beat opponents and willingness to push forward fit the modern demands of the position.

Messali has already represented Algeria at youth level and appears to be moving closer to a first senior call-up. His main challenge will be to maintain his progress over a sustained period, following a career disrupted by several injuries.

Kelyann Bezahaf has also attracted attention after making his first successful start for Olympique de Marseille. The 20-year-old showed courage and energy and offered an attacking threat, while his status at OM naturally strengthens his case.

A November call-up could nevertheless come too soon. Bezahaf still needs to establish himself with the under-23 side, where his latest performances in South Africa had not fully convinced, and he must also build up more club playing time. Hemdani can continue monitoring him without rushing his development.

Saadi Radouani did not take advantage of Belghali’s absence during the last international camp. The USM Alger player’s African football experience remains valuable, but his weaknesses were exposed against Burundi.

Samir Chergui can cover at right-back, although he is primarily a centre-back, while Achref Abada offers versatility rather than specialist expertise. Hemdani therefore has several choices in Belghali, Zedadka, Messali, Bezahaf, Radouani, Chergui and Abada, allowing him to tailor his selection to the system and opposition.