Algeria’s Feghouli Ruled Out of Seychelles Clash Due to Injury
Algeria have suffered a setback ahead of their opening 2017 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier, as influential midfielder Sofiane Feghouli has been ruled out of Saturday’s clash against Seychelles due to injury.
The Valencia star was forced to leave camp early after picking up a knock during training. While the Algerian Football Federation has not disclosed the exact nature or severity of the injury, it was confirmed that Feghouli departed the team setup on Tuesday morning and will not be available for selection.
Feghouli had attended the previous training session at the Sidi Moussa Technical Centre, raising hopes he might recover in time. However, further assessment confirmed he would be unfit to take part in the match.
Algeria coach Christian Gourcuff will now have to adjust his plans without one of his most experienced and creative midfielders. The Frenchman had already warned against underestimating the Seychelles, despite the Fennecs being overwhelming favourites to top their qualifying group, which also includes Ethiopia and Lesotho.
The match is scheduled for Saturday, June 13, at the Mustapha Tchaker Stadium in Blida, where Algeria will be aiming for a strong start on their road to Gabon 2017.
