Algeria forward Mohammed Amoura will learn the extent of his injury on Friday after limping off during his side’s 2-0 victory over Rwanda in an international friendly, casting a shadow over the team’s preparations for their upcoming trip to Sweden.
The Wolfsburg striker was forced to leave the pitch late in the match, visibly in pain, raising immediate concerns for national team coach Vladimir Petkovic.
Speaking after the game, Petkovic did not conceal his anxiety over the situation. “The only bad news is Amoura’s injury,” he admitted. “We will evaluate tomorrow which players will travel with us to Sweden.”
The 24-year-old, who has been a key figure for the national team and was recently named the 2024 Golden Fennec, now faces an anxious wait to determine whether he will be fit enough to continue with the squad for their upcoming international fixture. The medical staff is expected to assess the extent of the damage on Friday, a deadline set by Petkovic himself.
The timing of the injury could not be worse for Algeria, who are aiming to build momentum ahead of key matches later in the year.
Amoura’s recent performances have made him a focal point in the team’s attacking strategy, and his potential absence would be a significant blow.
In his post-match comments, Petkovic also took time to commend Rwanda for their performance in a contest that proved more challenging than expected for Algeria.
“It was a special and difficult match,” the coach said. “I congratulate Rwanda for their aggression and organisation. We needed to move the ball faster and with more purpose.”
Despite the win, the encounter left Petkovic with more questions than answers. The team struggled at times to break down a compact and physical Rwandan side. Algeria managed to secure the result, but the coach acknowledged that improvements were needed, especially with tougher opponents on the horizon.
While the spotlight remains firmly on Amoura’s fitness, Petkovic now faces a series of tactical decisions ahead of the trip to Scandinavia. With the travelling squad set to be confirmed soon, Friday’s medical report on Amoura will likely determine whether a late change will be necessary in the attacking line-up.
Supporters of Les Fennecs are holding their breath, hoping that the striker’s condition is not serious. Known for his pace, technical ability and clinical finishing, Amoura has emerged as a fan favourite and a symbol of a new generation of Algerian talent. Losing him at this juncture would not only affect team morale but could also disrupt the fluidity Petkovic has been working to instil in recent matches.
Until then, the squad remains in a state of uncertainty, with players and coaching staff alike awaiting the medical verdict that will shape the final composition of the team heading into the match against Sweden. For now, all eyes are on Friday.
