Algeria: Bennacer and Bounedjah in line for surprise returns under Hemdani

Algeria manager Brahim Hemdani is reportedly considering recalls for Ismael Bennacer and Baghdad Bounedjah ahead of the team’s 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Togo.

Algeria host Togo in Tizi-Ouzou on 14 November before travelling to Lome for the return fixture on 17 November, and Hemdani is expected to make several changes to his squad.

According to specialist account F.M.Y., Bennacer and Bounedjah could both return after an absence of 10 months, provided they are deemed physically ready.

The pair have won 142 international caps between them and scored 38 goals, but neither has featured for Algeria since the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. They were subsequently left out of former manager Vladimir Petkovic’s plans and did not make the squad for the 2026 World Cup.

Bennacer’s repeated injury problems contributed to his exclusion. Disappointed at missing the global tournament, he delayed his return, despite his own wishes, following an outburst during his first appearance for Al-Gharafa in mid-September.

Bounedjah, meanwhile, was considered a source of anxiety because of his behaviour at the Africa Cup of Nations. His absence was keenly felt in Algeria’s attack during the World Cup.

Hemdani is also believed to be considering several midfielders who were part of the World Cup squad but missed out on his first selection.

Yacine Titraoui, Nabil Bentaleb and Nadhir Benbouali are all understood to have recovered from their injuries. Bentaleb’s leadership qualities are reportedly particularly appreciated by Hemdani. Hicham Boudaoui could also return after being omitted from the previous squad for sporting reasons.

The situation surrounding Houssem Aouar remains unresolved. Hemdani is looking for a creative midfielder who can support Ibrahim Maza.

Young defender Kelyann Bezahaf is expected to be included in the expanded squad. The 20-year-old, who plays for OM, is said to have impressed with a composed performance against Troyes in the French league at the weekend.

OM won the match 0-2 on Sunday.

Bezahaf was called up to the Algeria Under-23 squad during the previous international break. His potential inclusion would represent a further opportunity for a player who has recently attracted the manager’s attention.

Adil Aouchiche, Ilan Kebbal and Monsef Bakrar, however, are all at serious risk of losing their places in the next squad.