Algeria’s narrow Togo win exposes concerns despite Group 9 lead

Algeria moved closer to qualification for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations with a 1-0 victory over Togo on Saturday, but former international Lamouri Djediat believes the performance raised more questions than it answered.

The result on matchday three kept the Greens top of Group 9 with seven points. Zambia are second on four points after drawing 1-1 with Burundi, while Togo have three points and Burundi two.

Ramy Bensebaini scored the decisive goal in the 76th minute, converting the opportunity created by Anis Hadj Moussa. However, Algeria struggled for long periods to break down a well-organised Togolese defence and failed to impose sustained control on a match played at home.

Africafoota asked Djediat, a former Algeria playmaker with 10 international caps, to assess the performances. The former ES Setif, ASO Chlef and USM Alger player, who won the Algerian championship with three different clubs as well as several Arab and regional titles, selected three players for praise and three for criticism.

Abada, Azzi and Boulbina praised

Djediat identified Achref Abada as Algeria’s outstanding performer. He praised the defender’s strength in challenges, alertness and ability to intervene during difficult moments, saying his work helped protect the defence while the team struggled collectively.

Mohamed Azzi, who plays for CSKA Moscow, was also included among the positives. Djediat considered his display disciplined and reliable, particularly in the way he dealt with Togo’s attacking efforts. He believes Azzi can provide important defensive security in matches where maintaining balance is a priority.

Adil Boulbina completed the former midfielder’s list of three successful performers. Introduced during the second half, Boulbina brought greater movement, energy and attacking variety as Algeria searched for a breakthrough. Djediat viewed his impact as evidence of the value of substitutes who can alter the pace of a closely contested game.

Amoura, Chaibi and Maza criticised

Mohamed Amine Amoura was described as one of the main disappointments. Djediat felt the forward’s performance was well below his usual level and that his pace and ability to make a difference should have caused Togo’s defence more problems.

Fares Chaibi also failed to meet expectations, according to Djediat. The former international said the attacking midfielder had too little influence in creating openings, finding space between the lines or supplying the forwards. He argued that selection should be based on current form and actual contribution rather than reputation or status.

Ibrahim Maza was the third player criticised. Djediat judged his work in midfield insufficient, particularly in ball circulation and helping Algeria play with greater fluency. He said Maza and Nabil Bentaleb should have been replaced at half-time because the midfield was not providing the necessary balance or intensity.

Djediat also questioned Algeria’s progress under Brahim Hemdani. He believes four matches under the coach have brought no significant improvement and that the team still struggles against sides regarded as less experienced.

Although the victory strengthened Algeria’s qualification campaign, Djediat warned that the shortcomings seen against Togo could prove more costly against stronger African opposition. He called for greater competition within the squad and for the technical staff to select players based on performances rather than sentiment.