Algerian midfielder Yacine Titraoui shines again as Charleroi secure first win of the season

Charleroi midfielder Yacine Titraoui produced another commanding display as his side earned their first league victory of the campaign with a 3-1 win over Dender.

The 22-year-old Algerian, still awaiting his chance with the national team, dictated the tempo throughout the match and was widely regarded as the standout performer.

Operating as the heartbeat of the Zebras’ midfield, Titraoui touched the ball 86 times, completed 91% of his passes and delivered 12 successful long balls out of 12, underlining both his precision and consistency.

It was the type of performance that has become increasingly familiar since his arrival in Belgium.

After a promising debut season in European football, where his creativity and composure began to attract wider recognition, Titraoui appears to have taken another step forward.

His ability to blend technical skill with tactical intelligence continues to make him one of Charleroi’s most reliable players.

Despite his influence at club level, the midfielder remains overlooked by Algeria head coach Vladimir Petkovic, who left him out of the latest squad.

Even his former Charleroi teammate, Adem Zorgane, has also been excluded, raising questions over Petkovic’s midfield selections.

Competition for places in Algeria’s engine room is undoubtedly fierce, with Hicham Boudaoui and Farès Chaïbi pushing for starting roles.

Yet Titraoui’s recent performances suggest he deserves to be considered alongside established internationals such as Ramiz Zerrouki and Nabil Bentaleb.

Supporters and pundits alike argue that his qualities—particularly his passing range, game intelligence and ability to control matches—offer something different to the national team setup.

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Gros match de Yacine pic.twitter.com/yxr0KDZOPk

— Paradou Ac Talents (@Paradoutalents) August 30, 2025

For Charleroi, however, his continued absence from international duty has been a blessing, allowing him to remain fully focused on his club responsibilities.

The victory over Dender was vital for Charleroi, who had endured a difficult start to the season.

Titraoui’s influence in midfield not only gave his side stability but also provided the platform for their attacking players to flourish.

His metronomic style—constantly available for the ball, dictating tempo, and recycling possession with ease—proved crucial in breaking down the opposition.

For now, the young midfielder continues to let his football do the talking.

If he maintains this level of consistency, pressure will inevitably mount on Algeria’s coaching staff to hand him the international call-up many believe he has already earned.

Until then, Charleroi will be the main beneficiaries of Titraoui’s growing maturity and excellence on the pitch.