Brahimi: “It was a very important match for us” as Algeria sweep aside Bahrain
Algeria reignited their Arab Cup campaign with a dominant 5-1 win over Bahrain, a response that their players and technical staff demanded after a disappointing goalless draw with Sudan in their first outing.
Yacine Brahimi underlined the importance of the fixture, stressing that the squad needed a strong reaction to stay in the race for qualification.
Algeria produced exactly that, combining sharp pressing, fluid attacking play, and clinical finishing to claim their first victory in the tournament.
Madjid Bougherra’s side struck early when Youcef Atal curved an inch-perfect cross toward Redouane Berkane, who guided the ball home to set the tone for the evening.
Bahrain briefly troubled the Algerians, but the North Africans quickly tightened their grip on the game and dictated the rhythm.
Adil Boulbina, who continues to shine as one of Algeria’s emerging talents in this competition, restored the advantage after Bahrain’s equaliser.
His energetic movement and confidence on the ball created constant problems for the opposing defence.
Moments later, Yassine Benzia converted from the penalty spot, giving the Fennecs a deserved two-goal cushion before the break.
The second half unfolded with the same Algerian control. Berkane struck again after a sweeping team move, and Boulbina completed his brace with a composed finish that summed up Algeria’s dominance.
Their attack maintained tempo, their midfield pressed aggressively, and their back line remained attentive to prevent Bahrain from building any momentum.
With this emphatic result, Algeria climbed to the top of the group on a provisional basis. The win reaffirmed their ambitions and restored confidence within the camp after the sluggish start against Sudan.
Brahimi, echoing the mood of the squad, emphasised how much the performance meant, both in terms of points and renewed belief.
The Fennecs now approach the remainder of the group stage with momentum, knowing that qualification sits firmly within their reach if they maintain this level of intensity and execution.
