Algeria’s women’s under-17 team has commenced preparations for their upcoming doubleheader against Botswana in the second round of the 2025 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup qualifiers.
Coach Abdenour Mira has called up 21 players for the training camp at the National Technical Center of Sidi Moussa, as the squad gears up for the crucial encounters.
The first leg is scheduled for Saturday, 8 March 2025, at 14:00 (Algerian time) at the Obed Itani Chilume Stadium in Francistown, Botswana.
The return leg will take place on Sunday, 16 March 2025, at 21:00 at the Mustapha Tchaker Stadium in Blida.
The Algerian team progressed to the second round after eliminating Tunisia with a 1-0 aggregate victory in the opening round.
They must now overcome Botswana to secure a place in the third and final round of the African qualifiers, set to take place between 18 and 27 April.
French-Based Talent Boosts Squad
Seven players from French clubs have been included in the squad. Yahiaoui Ines Amélia and Mechmache Jasmine represent VGA Saint-Maur, Benchikh Melissa and Mehdi Assia hail from AAS Sarcelles, Chenouf Soleima and Briki Assia Miriam play for Olympique Lyonnais, while Baranes Hayden features for SM Caen.
The rest of the squad is drawn from local clubs, with Afak Relizane contributing four players, CF Akbou five, JF Khroub two, while D’M’chdallah, ASE Alger Centre, and EA Sety each have one representative.
Tough Test Awaits in Final Round
Should Algeria triumph over Botswana, they will face a challenging final round clash against the winner of the South Africa versus Nigeria tie.
Both nations are among the strongest sides on the continent, posing a stern test for Algeria’s qualification hopes.
The 2025 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup will be held in Morocco from 17 October to 8 November, with 24 teams participating—an expansion from the previous 16-team format.
Africa will have five representatives, including hosts Morocco.
