Algeria has been dealt a significant blow ahead of their upcoming AFCON 2025 qualifier against Liberia, with key midfielder Ismael Bennacer ruled out due to injury. The AC Milan star sustained the injury during a training session on Sunday morning, forcing him to miss Tuesday’s crucial encounter.
The Algerian Football Federation confirmed the news through an official statement, which read, “Bennacer was injured in training and is exempt from the match against Liberia.
This Sunday morning, the national coach, Vladimir Petkovic, scheduled the last training session at the National Technical Center of Sidi Moussa before going to Monrovia in the afternoon.”
Bennacer, who played a pivotal role in Algeria’s 2-0 victory over Equatorial Guinea earlier in the week, will return to his club, AC Milan, for further evaluation of the injury.
His absence is a significant loss for the Fennecs, as they prepare to face Liberia in Monrovia in what promises to be a challenging encounter.
Algerian head coach Vladimir Petkovic will now have to rethink his midfield strategy without one of his most influential players.
Bennacer’s presence in the midfield has been instrumental for both club and country, known for his ability to control the tempo of the game and provide stability in the center of the pitch.
His injury not only impacts Algeria’s immediate plans but also leaves AC Milan with concerns, especially with key fixtures against Liverpool and Inter Milan on the horizon.
Bennacer’s injury comes at a crucial time for Algeria, who are looking to maintain their momentum in the AFCON 2025 qualifiers.
The team will now rely on their depth to secure a positive result against Liberia and continue their campaign towards qualification.
The absence of Bennacer also raises questions about the squad’s depth and how Petkovic will adjust his tactics to compensate for the loss.
With the team’s ambitions set on securing a place in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, the upcoming match against Liberia is crucial, and the pressure will be on the remaining midfielders to step up in Bennacer’s absence.
As Bennacer returns to Milanello for further medical assessment, both Algerian fans and Milan supporters will be hoping for a quick recovery.
The midfielder’s return to full fitness will be crucial for both his national team and club as they navigate a challenging period in their respective campaigns.
Algeria’s Squad for the Liberia Match:
- Goalkeeper: Rais M’Bolhi
- Defenders: Ramy Bensebaini, Aissa Mandi, Youcef Atal, Mohamed Fares
- Midfielders: Sofiane Feghouli, Adlene Guedioura, Haris Belkebla
- Forwards: Riyad Mahrez, Baghdad Bounedjah, Yacine Brahimi
The match against Liberia will serve as a test of Algeria’s resilience as they aim to overcome the loss of Bennacer and secure a vital win on the road to AFCON 2025.
