Elias Benkara wins Algerian hearts with proud declaration of identity

Newly called-up defender Elias Benkara has instantly captured the hearts of Algerian fans with a powerful statement of national pride ahead of his potential debut for the Desert Warriors.

The 18-year-old Borussia Dortmund centre-back, born in Frankfurt to an Algerian father and German mother, joined the senior squad for the first time this week and could feature in Thursday’s friendly against Zimbabwe in Jeddah.

Despite his youth and lack of senior experience, Benkara has already made a lasting impression — not on the pitch, but through his words.

Speaking to reporters after training, the 1.93m defender expressed his deep affection for Algeria and his lifelong attachment to the national team.

“I’ve been a fan of the Algerian national team since I was a child, since the 2014 World Cup. I’m very happy to be here and I thank all the Algerian fans. I’m Algerian, I live and die for Algeria. I may be blond with blue eyes, but I’m 100% Algerian,” he declared, drawing admiration and applause across social media.

His heartfelt message — particularly the phrase “I may be blond with blue eyes, but I’m 100% Algerian” — has since gone viral, resonating strongly with supporters who saw it as a proud reaffirmation of national belonging that transcends appearance.

Benkara’s comments also reflected his determination to contribute meaningfully to the team despite his limited professional experience.

I hope to find my place here. I have to work hard to get there. Right now, there’s Bensebaini, Mandi, and Tougaï, but in the future, I want to represent Algeria, he said.

For many fans, the young defender’s enthusiasm and fluency in Arabic further underline his commitment to his heritage.

His words have been described in local media as a message of love and loyalty that strengthens the bond between the Algerian diaspora and the homeland.

At just 18, Benkara faces fierce competition in Algeria’s defensive ranks, but his maturity, physical presence, and emotional connection to the shirt have already set him apart.

Elias Benkara :

« Je suis un algérien, je meurs pour l’Algérie. Je suis peut-être blond aux yeux bleus mais je suis 100% algérien. » pic.twitter.com/LLXRepV6ii

— La Vague Verte ⭐️🇩🇿⭐️ (@la_vagueverte) November 12, 2025

Following in the footsteps of players like Samir Chergui, who recently expressed similar patriotic devotion, Benkara appears poised to become a new fan favourite — not only for his potential on the pitch but also for his pride in wearing the green jersey.