Algeria goalkeeper Oussama Benbot could miss out as Brahim Hemdani prepares first squad

Brahim Hemdani is expected to make changes to Algeria’s goalkeeping options when he names his first squad as senior national team manager, with Oussama Benbot reportedly at risk of being left out.

Hemdani was appointed to lead the senior side only a few days ago and is due to announce his selection shortly. Algeria will begin their qualification campaign for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations against Zambia in Tizi Ouzou on 25 September before travelling to Bujumbura to face Burundi four days later.

The new manager will also oversee a friendly against Niger in Tizi Ouzou on 6 October.

According to journalist Imad Mostefai, Hemdani is considering a goalkeeping group made up of Melvin Mastil, Kilian Belazzoug and Abdellatif Ramdane. Luca Zidane, who had been first choice under Vladimir Petkovic since the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, is suspended.

Benbot’s possible omission would represent a significant change for a goalkeeper who has had a complicated recent relationship with the national team. Frustrated at not playing a single minute during the Africa Cup of Nations, he announced his international retirement in mid-January at the age of 31.

However, a series of impressive performances for USM Alger, combined with uncertainty created by a succession of injuries among Algeria’s goalkeepers, led to his return to the squad for the 2026 World Cup.

Benbot made one appearance at that tournament, featuring in Algeria’s decisive match against Austria. The 3-3 draw on 28 June secured Algeria’s qualification for the last 16.

If the current indications prove accurate, the former JS Kabylie goalkeeper could regard another omission as a fresh setback. It may also prompt him to close the door on international football permanently.

The goalkeeping position has been a regular source of debate in Algeria in recent years. A number of players have been given opportunities, but none has established himself as an entirely convincing solution.

Among those tested have been Anthony Mandrea, Alexis Guendouz, Alexandre Oukidja and Zakaria Bouhalfaya. Hemdani’s first list will therefore provide an early indication of how he intends to address one of the most contested positions in the squad.

The manager’s immediate priority will be to start the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign positively against Zambia, followed by the trip to Burundi. The October meeting with Niger will then give him a further chance to assess his options before the competitive programme develops.