Algerian striker Baghdad Bounedjah has provided reassurance following an injury scare during Al-Shamal SC’s 1-0 defeat to Al-Arabi SC in the Qatar Stars League.
The forward, who was forced off in stoppage time, appeared to be in discomfort as he left the pitch, raising concerns about his fitness ahead of Algeria’s upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
Despite initial fears, a source close to the player has confirmed that the injury is not serious, and Bounedjah is expected to be available for the national team camp scheduled between March 17 and 25.
A crucial player for club and country
At 33 years old, Bounedjah remains a key figure for both club and country.
Since joining Al-Shamal SC from Al-Sadd last summer, he has continued to showcase his prolific goal-scoring ability.
Leading the Qatar Stars League with 17 goals this season, he has proven that his instincts in front of goal remain as sharp as ever.
His form at club level has ensured he remains a regular in Vladimir Petković’s Algeria squad, despite ongoing debates about his performances with the national team.
As one of the heroes of Algeria’s 2019 Africa Cup of Nations triumph, Bounedjah retains the trust of the coaching staff, who see him as a vital asset in the Fennecs’ pursuit of World Cup qualification.
Muscle strain, but no major concerns
According to medical reports, Bounedjah’s injury is only a minor muscular strain, and there is no indication that it will prevent him from joining the squad for the crucial qualifiers against Botswana and Mozambique.
“It is simply a slight muscle strain. His condition does not call into question his presence at the next national team training camp,” a source confirmed.
This update comes as a relief to Petković, who is keen to have his full attacking options available for the two matches.
Algeria will be aiming to maintain their momentum in the CAF World Cup qualifiers, where every point is crucial in the race for a place at the 2026 tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Eyes on recovery before key fixtures
While the prognosis is positive, Bounedjah’s fitness will still be closely monitored in the coming days.
Petković and the Algerian medical team will want to ensure that he is fully recovered and ready to contribute at his best in the upcoming fixtures.
With Algeria’s attacking options under scrutiny, Bounedjah’s experience and goal-scoring prowess could be decisive.
His ability to lead the line and deliver in important moments remains an asset, and the hope within the Algerian camp will be that his injury does not become a lingering issue as they continue their quest for World Cup qualification.
