Algeria will be without influential duo Larbi Tabti and Chouaib Keddad as they host Gambia in a must-win second leg of their 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) qualifier at the 19-Mai-1956 Stadium in Annaba on Friday.
Following a goalless draw in Banjul during the first leg, Madjid Bougherra’s side must secure victory at home to book their place in the final tournament.
The stakes are high for the Algerian A team, made up exclusively of domestic league players, as they aim to return to CHAN competition with a strong showing.
However, preparations have been dealt a blow by the confirmed absence of two experienced players.
Midfielder Larbi Tabti and defender Chouaib Keddad have been ruled out through injury, a setback confirmed by a source close to the national team, speaking to AfricaFootUnited.
“Larbi Tabti and Chouaib Keddad are both unavailable for the second leg due to injury,” the source stated, adding that the coaching team had already begun adjusting their tactical setup accordingly.
Despite the absences, head coach Bougherra remains optimistic about his side’s chances.
The former national team defender is confident in the depth of his squad and believes the team can overcome the challenge through collective effort and home advantage.
Algeria will be counting on the passionate support of their fans in Annaba, whose presence is expected to create a charged atmosphere that could tip the balance in the hosts’ favour.
The home crowd played a vital role in previous qualifying matches, and their backing is once again seen as a crucial factor.
Team preparations have focused on maintaining defensive solidity while increasing attacking intensity, following a first leg in which both sides struggled to create clear-cut opportunities.
The coaching staff is understood to be encouraging a more aggressive approach in the return leg, knowing that anything less than a win will see them eliminated from the competition.
The CHAN tournament, reserved for players competing in their domestic leagues, provides a significant platform for emerging talent.
Algeria, eager to showcase the strength of its home-based players, is determined not to let this opportunity slip away—despite the absence of two of its mainstays.
