Africans Abroad Algeria archives Countries Football Latest News

Algeria’s defensive concerns grow as Ramy Bensebaïni and Aïssa Mandi struggle for playing time

Algeria’s defensive concerns grow as Ramy Bensebaïni and Aïssa Mandi struggle for playing time

Algeria’s central defensive pairing of Ramy Bensebaïni and Aïssa Mandi faces increasing uncertainty ahead of the national team’s return to action in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

The long-anticipated Champions League clash between the two players failed to materialize, with both seeing minimal or no playing time as Borussia Dortmund and Lille played to a 1-1 draw in the round of 16 first leg on Tuesday night.

Limited minutes for Bensebaïni and Mandi

Bensebaïni, who has found himself increasingly sidelined at Dortmund, was left out of the starting lineup for the third consecutive match.

The Algerian defender was only introduced in the 83rd minute, managing just 12 minutes on the pitch, during which he completed just two of his five passes, won no duels, and covered minimal distance.

Meanwhile, Mandi remained an unused substitute for Lille, watching from the bench as the defensive duo of Alexsandro and Bafodé Diakité delivered a solid performance.

The return of Belgian veteran Thomas Meunier further complicated Mandi’s chances of securing a starting role, with Lille’s defensive lineup appearing settled for the time being.

Lack of game time poses problems for Algeria

The struggles of Bensebaïni and Mandi at club level come at a concerning time for Algeria, as Vladimir Petković prepares to name his squad for the World Cup qualifiers against Botswana and Mozambique.

Adding to the defensive woes, Espérance de Tunis center-back Mohamed Amine Tougaï has already been ruled out due to injury, further limiting the coach’s options.

With Algeria aiming to secure top spot in their group— the only position that guarantees automatic qualification for the 2026 World Cup—Petković now faces a difficult decision.

He must either persist with out-of-form defenders or seek alternative solutions to reinforce his backline.

Tactical adjustments on the horizon?

Given the defensive uncertainties, Petković may consider reverting to a traditional four-man defense rather than relying on his usual central pairing.

Alternatively, he could introduce new faces into the squad to bring fresh energy and competition to the backline.

With Algeria set to resume their qualifying campaign in less than two weeks, the situation surrounding Bensebaïni and Mandi will be closely monitored.

If their struggles at club level persist, the Greens may have to look beyond their once-established defensive duo in search of greater stability.

Leave a comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Football Latest News

Islam Slimani Targeted by Four Interested Clubs

Islam Slimani Attracts Premier League Interest Amid Sporting Lisbon Exit Rumours Algerian striker Islam Slimani may be on his way
Football Latest News

Juventus: Moroccan Younes Bnou Marzouk Loaned to Westerlo

Younes Bnou Marzouk Joins Westerlo on Loan from Juventus 19-year-old Moroccan striker Younes Bnou Marzouk is set for a new
Football Latest News

Friendly: Senegal’s Starting XI to Face South Africa

Senegal Set to Face South Africa in Friendly After Namibia Victory Senegal will take on South Africa in a friendly
COSAFA Countries E-Sports Football

EMMANUEL ADEBAYOR: ANOTHER SCORER FOR TOTTENHAM WHO LEADS AHEAD OF SWANSEA – VIDEO

Emmanuel Adebayor continues to prove his worth on the pitch, dispelling any doubts about his exclusion under André Villas-Boas. On
Blog Football Foreign Leagues Latest News

CHELSEA RECRUITS GHANAIAN CHRISTIAN ATSU THEN LOANS HIM TO VITESSE ARNHEM

The transfer of Ghanaian attacking midfielder Christian Atsu to Chelsea has been officially confirmed. Atsu signed a 5-year contract with
Football Latest News

La Liga: Fayçal Fajr Delighted to Join Deportivo

Fayçal Fajr Joins Deportivo La Coruña on Three-Year Deal Deportivo La Coruña have officially announced the signing of Fayçal Fajr

Discover the ultimate blend of luxury and precision with the best replica watch. This stunning timepiece captures the essence of elegance and performance, making it the perfect accessory for both formal and casual occasions. Elevate your style without compromising your budget—experience sophistication today!

[elementor-template id="249733"]