Youcef Atal and Riyad Mahrez are in outstanding form in the AFC Champions League, providing a major boost for Algeria ahead of their upcoming international fixtures.
With Hichem Boudaoui also excelling in Ligue 1, the right side of the national team is shaping up to be a formidable force once again.
Mahrez’s impact in Asia
After winning the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) with Algeria in 2019 and securing the UEFA Champions League title with Manchester City, Riyad Mahrez is now dominating the Asian football scene with Al-Ahli.
The Algerian captain has been in scintillating form, delivering eight goals and seven assists in just ten AFC Champions League matches.
His latest display came in Al-Ahli’s round of 16 clash against Al-Rayyan, where he scored twice in just five minutes, helping his team secure qualification for the next stage.
His goal tally places him third among the tournament’s top scorers, ahead of global stars like Cristiano Ronaldo (seven goals) and other well-known forwards such as Aleksandar Mitrović and Akram Afif (both on five goals).
Mahrez remains optimistic about his club’s chances in the competition.
We have shown excellent mental strength and have unwavering support from the fans.
We want to achieve something great for the club this season,” he told the AFC’s official website. “Holding the final in Jeddah will help us, and we will give everything we have to win the title.”
Atal’s return to form
Alongside Mahrez, Youcef Atal is making a strong comeback at Al-Sadd.
After suffering an injury scare in the first leg against Al-Wasl, which initially raised concerns about his availability for Algeria’s March training camp, the right-back responded with an impressive display in the return fixture, even scoring a goal.
Atal’s return to full fitness is a significant boost for Algeria.
His defensive solidity and attacking contribution make him a key asset for the national team, particularly on the right flank, where his chemistry with Mahrez has been well-established over the years.
Boudaoui’s growing influence
Adding to Algeria’s strength on the right side, Hichem Boudaoui continues to impress for OGC Nice in Ligue 1.
The midfielder has been a standout performer in recent weeks, playing a crucial role in Franck Haise’s squad, which currently sits on the podium in the French league.
His versatility and work rate make him a strong candidate for a starting spot in Vladimir Petković’s lineup.
A balanced and dangerous Algeria
With Boudaoui’s influence growing in midfield, Atal regaining fitness, and Mahrez in top form, Algeria’s right flank is once again emerging as a key attacking outlet.
Coupled with the left-sided duo of Rayan Aït-Nouri, who is excelling in the Premier League, and Mohamed Amine Amoura, thriving in the Bundesliga, the Desert Foxes appear to have a well-balanced, unpredictable attack capable of challenging any opponent.
As international fixtures approach, Algeria’s newfound strength on both wings will be crucial in their quest for success on the road to the 2026 World Cup.
