The Algerian women’s national football team is set to face Uganda in two friendly matches as part of their preparations for the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), which has been rescheduled to take place in July 2025. The matches will be held on November 27 and November 30 at the Mustapha-Tchaker Stadium in Blida, with kickoffs scheduled for 4:00 PM, according to a statement from the Algerian Football Federation (FAF).
Focused Preparations Under Farid Benstiti
Head coach Farid Benstiti has called up a 24-player squad for these fixtures, with 19 players currently plying their trade abroad.
The team will enter a training camp from November 25 to December 6 at the National Technical Center (CTN) in Sidi Moussa.
These matches are seen as critical opportunities for the team to fine-tune their strategies and build cohesion ahead of the tournament.
Algeria’s qualification for the 2024 AFCON marks their return to the continental stage after missing out on the last two editions.
They secured their spot in the finals in December 2023 with a convincing performance against Burundi, winning 5-1 in the first leg and 1-0 in the second, both played at the July 5 Olympic Stadium in Algiers.
Group B Challenges Await
Algeria will compete in Group B of the tournament alongside Nigeria, Tunisia, and Botswana.
The group poses a significant challenge, particularly with Nigeria’s long-standing dominance in African women’s football.
However, the top two teams in each group, along with the two best third-placed teams, will progress to the quarter-finals, offering Algeria multiple pathways to advance.
The team’s return to AFCON competition is an important milestone as they aim to make a mark on the continental stage.
“We’re focused on preparing thoroughly for the challenges ahead,” said a source close to the team, highlighting the importance of these friendlies in sharpening their form.
Uganda Tests Provide Valuable Insights
Facing Uganda provides Algeria an opportunity to test their squad against a competitive side, particularly as they aim to integrate domestic and international players into a cohesive unit.
With players from various leagues bringing diverse experiences, these matches will help Benstiti assess combinations and tactics before the demanding AFCON schedule begins.
As the countdown to the 2024 AFCON continues, these preparatory matches are a vital step in Algeria’s quest to reestablish themselves among the elite of African women’s football.
The team and its supporters will hope these efforts translate into success on the field come July 2025.
