Algeria have called up ES Sétif defender Driss Chaabi as a late reinforcement for their national A team ahead of their 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) qualifying tie against Gambia, following a string of injury withdrawals.
Madjid Bougherra’s side, currently holding a training camp at the Sidi Moussa technical centre, has been forced into last-minute changes after two key players were ruled out.
The first casualty was MC Alger midfielder Mohamed Benkhemassa, who departed camp on Monday evening due to injury.
A second blow came just 24 hours later, when USM Alger defender Imad Azzi also withdrew from the squad with a knock.
In response, the Algerian technical staff acted swiftly to bolster the squad’s defensive ranks by bringing in Chaabi, whose consistent performances for ES Sétif have earned him the nod.
Sources close to the national setup confirmed to AfricaFootUnited that the 23-year-old has now linked up with the team.
The timing of these injuries comes as Algeria prepares for a pivotal two-legged fixture against Gambia, with a spot at the next CHAN on the line.
The team is scheduled to depart for Gambia this Thursday, with the first leg set to take place on May 3 at the Independence Stadium in Bakau.
The loss of Benkhemassa, known for his composure and ability to control the tempo in midfield, is particularly significant for Bougherra, who had earmarked him as a central figure in Algeria’s qualifying campaign.
Meanwhile, Azzi’s absence further stretches a backline already under scrutiny, making Chaabi’s late inclusion all the more crucial.
Despite the disruption, the national team remains focused on securing a positive result away from home.
The return leg will follow shortly after, and Bougherra will be hoping his side can build early momentum to ease the pressure on home soil.
Algeria will be aiming to put behind them the recent disappointments at international level and make a strong impression in the CHAN qualifiers, with ambitions of re-establishing their dominance on the African stage.
