Ibrahim Hamdani, the new national team coach, is expected to introduce a significantly altered lineup for the upcoming match against Zambia this Friday. The team is scheduled to play the Zambian side at the Hussein Ait Ahmed stadium. This anticipated lineup change marks a departure from the squad that featured in the national team's last World Cup match against Switzerland. This strategic shift by Coach Hamdani signals a new direction for the national team as they embark on their qualification campaign. The match against Zambia is not just a friendly fixture but the official kick-off of their journey towards the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations. The decision to overhaul the team reflects Hamdani's intent to bring fresh talent and tactics to the forefront, moving away from previous configurations.
Key Personnel Changes
Meflin Faisal Mastil is expected to start in goal for the national team, replacing the suspended Luka Zidane. This change in goalkeeper is one of the most prominent adjustments in the squad. In defense, Rami Ben Sabeini is anticipated to captain the team due to his seniority, a role that shows his experience and leadership on the field. Zinedine Belaid is expected to play alongside him in central defense, forming a new defensive partnership. The absence of Nabil Bentaleb from the squad due to injury is a notable setback, necessitating further adjustments in the team's structure.
On the wings, Joan Hajjam is likely to play on the left, replacing Rayan Aït-Nouri, bringing a new dynamic to the left flank. Samir Chergui is expected to feature on the right, completing the wide attacking positions. The midfield is projected to include Abdelli, Mazah, and Chaibi, forming a core trio in the center of the park. Bourbaba is also mentioned as a surprise inclusion in midfield for the continental event, indicating Hamdani's willingness to introduce unexpected choices. Upfront, Gouiri will be deployed in attack, tasked with leading the line. Boulbina is considered a good substitute option for the upcoming match, providing depth and an alternative attacking threat from the bench. This full restructuring of key positions notes Coach Hamdani's vision for the team's performance against Zambia.
Qualifier Context and Schedule
The national team will commence its 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) qualifiers this Friday, September 25th, with the match against Zambia. This fixture, held at the 'Hussein Ait Ahmed' stadium, is the first part of the 2027 CAN qualification process. The team is scheduled to travel to Burundi for the second-round match on September 29th, a key away game in their qualification bid. Rounds three and four of the qualifiers are slated to occur between November 9 and November 17, 2026, marking the midpoint of the qualification journey. The qualification campaign will conclude with rounds five and six, which are scheduled from March 22 to March 30, 2027, determining the final standings. An additional qualification spot will be granted to another team in each group that includes the host nation, adding an extra layer of competition. The opening match of the 2027 CAN is set for June 19, 2027, with the final match scheduled for July 17, 2027, outlining the ultimate goal for the national team.
Coach's Influence and Player Form
Chiakha is anticipated to feature as a center forward, a decision reportedly influenced by his recent performances in the Norwegian league, showcasing his current form and goal-scoring abilities. Amoura is also expected to secure a starting position in the lineup, attributed to his current form with Nice, where he has demonstrated consistent high-level play. Prior to the training camp, most national team players reportedly sent reassuring messages to coach Ibrahim Hamdani through their strong club performances, indicating their readiness and commitment. The squad list announced by Coach Hamdani a week before the camp reportedly contained several unexpected selections, showing his independent approach to team selection and his focus on current form and tactical fit rather than past reputations. This emphasis on meritocratic selection is a hallmark of Hamdani's early tenure.