Algeria face Togo in crucial 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying clash

Algeria host Togo in the third round of 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying at the Hocine-Ait Ahmed Stadium in Tizi-Ouzou on Saturday, with kick-off scheduled for 20:00 GMT+1.

The hosts are top of Group I with four points from their opening two matches but must cope with a lengthy list of absentees. Rafik Belghali, Bachir Belloumi, Jaouen Hadjam and Hicham Boudaoui are unavailable, while Rayan Ait-Nouri has been left out.

Mohamed Azzi of CSKA Moscow makes his international debut at right-back, having been named straight into the starting line-up. However, Saadi Radouani later replaced Azzi in that position.

Abdelatif Ramdane and Amine Chiakha also left the Algeria squad during the international break. Rayane Yesli, Fahem Benaissa-Yahia, Adem Zorgane and Radouani were called up as reinforcements.

Brahim Hemdani’s side opened their campaign with a 3-1 victory over Zambia before being held to a 2-2 draw by Burundi in September. Algeria lead Zambia on goal difference, with both teams on four points, although Zambia have played one more match after drawing 1-1 with Burundi on Friday.

Victory would give Algeria a three-point advantage over their nearest challengers at the top of the group.

Togo are third with three points. The Eperviers began with a 1-0 win against Burundi but then lost 2-0 in Zambia. Patrice Neveu’s team are attempting to revive their qualification campaign, although recent meetings have favoured Algeria, who have won the past four encounters.

Two of those victories came in 2024, when Algeria beat Togo 5-1 and 1-0.

Live match updates

Togo made a threatening move when Denkey appeared ready to run through on goal. Mastil and then Abada were also forced to clear the danger at the last moment.

After Barcola lost possession, the Marseille player collected the loose ball and shot towards an unguarded net. Brassier intervened with an emergency tackle to prevent the goal.

Togo came close again when Ouro’s cross found Laba at close range. His header flew narrowly wide of Mastil’s goal.

There have also been several changes during the match. Drakpe and Ouro were replaced by Bessile and Jean Claude, while Boulbina came on for Amoura. Chaibi made way for Abdelli.

Algeria are seeking a result that would strengthen their position at the summit, while Togo are aiming to move back into contention after their defeat by Zambia.