AFCON 2027 qualifiers: Algeria face Zambia in crucial Group I opener

Algeria will begin their AFCON 2027 qualifying campaign when they host Zambia in a highly anticipated Group I encounter at the Stade Hocine Aït Ahmed in Tizi-Ouzou on Friday, September 25.

The match will mark the first competitive assignment for Algeria under new head coach Brahim Hemdani, who was appointed earlier this month following the departure of Vladimir Petkovic. Hemdani has named a squad featuring established players such as Rayan Aït-Nouri, Ramy Bensebaini, Nabil Bentaleb, Mohamed Amoura and Amine Gouiri.

The Desert Foxes will be looking to make a strong start on home soil, while Zambia arrive in Tizi-Ouzou with their squad fully assembled. George Lwandamina’s Chipolopolo have completed preparations after all summoned players arrived in Algeria, including the final arrivals Joseph Liteta and Gampani Lungu.

Zambia’s squad includes experienced attacking options Fashion Sakala, Patson Daka and Lameck Banda, alongside a mixture of domestic and foreign-based players. The visitors will then return home to face Togo on September 29, while Algeria travel to Burundi.

With both nations seeking an early advantage, Friday’s encounter promises an intriguing start to Group I.

Kick-off is scheduled for 7pm GMT.