The Algerian women’s national football team has commenced its final phase of preparations for the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), scheduled to take place in Morocco from July 5 to 26, 2025.
Under the guidance of head coach Farid Benstiti, the squad is currently engaged in a pre-competition training camp at the National Technical Centre (CTN) in Sidi Moussa, Algiers.
With just three weeks remaining until their opening match against Botswana on July 6 at the Père Jego Stadium in Casablanca, the team is focused on fine-tuning their tactics and building cohesion.
The CTN facilities, which include multiple training pitches, a gymnasium, and medical rehabilitation areas, are providing an optimal environment for the players to prepare both physically and mentally. The camp is set to conclude on June 22, 2025, before the team departs for Morocco on July 3.
The 26-player squad, comprising both domestic and international-based athletes, includes seasoned professionals such as Naïma Bouhani (Afak Relizane), Wassila Alouache (CF Akbou), and goalkeepers Amina Haleyi (JS Kabylie) and Lamia Lounas (ASE Alger-Centre).
These players bring a wealth of experience and leadership to the team, which is crucial as Algeria aims to make a significant impact in the tournament.
In preparation for the challenges ahead, the national team has scheduled three friendly matches against Senegal and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo).
These fixtures are intended to provide valuable match practice and allow the coaching staff to assess the team’s readiness.
The matches are tentatively set for June 26, June 29, and July 1, with the final match serving as the team’s last competitive outing before the tournament.
Algeria has been drawn into Group B alongside Nigeria, Tunisia, and Botswana. The group stage matches are expected to be highly competitive, with Nigeria being a particularly formidable opponent.
Coach Benstiti has acknowledged the challenges posed by these teams, emphasizing the importance of mental resilience and tactical discipline. “In this group, I think the most mentally resilient team will reach the quarter-finals,” he stated in a recent interview.
Historically, Algeria has faced difficulties advancing beyond the group stage in previous AFCON tournaments. However, with a blend of experienced players and emerging talents, the team is optimistic about breaking new ground and achieving their first-ever quarter-final appearance
. The upcoming friendlies against Senegal and DR Congo are seen as crucial opportunities to refine strategies and build team chemistry ahead of the tournament.
As the countdown to the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations continues, the Algerian women’s national team remains focused on their goal of making a lasting impression on the continental stage.
With dedicated preparation and a determined mindset, they are poised to take on the challenges that lie ahead.
