Algeria manager Brahim Hemdani is reportedly considering recalls for Ismael Bennacer and Baghdad Bounedjah ahead of the team’s next Africa Cup of Nations qualifying fixtures against Togo.
Algeria will host Togo in Tizi-Ouzou on 14 November before travelling to Lome for the return meeting on 17 November. According to information shared by specialist account F.M.Y., Bennacer and Bounedjah could both return to the squad after an absence of 10 months, provided they are considered physically ready.
The pair have made a combined 142 appearances for Algeria and scored 38 goals between them. However, neither has featured for the national team since the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
Both players fell out of favour under former manager Vladimir Petkovic and were not selected for the 2026 World Cup. Bennacer’s repeated injury problems contributed to his omission. The midfielder was also disappointed to miss the tournament and delayed his return after an outburst during his first appearance for Al-Gharafa in mid-September.
Bounedjah, meanwhile, was regarded as a source of anxiety because of his behaviour at the Africa Cup of Nations. His absence was keenly felt in the Algeria attack during the World Cup.
Midfield options under consideration
Hemdani is also understood to be considering several midfielders who featured in the World Cup but were left out of his first squad.
Yacine Titraoui, Nabil Bentaleb and Nadhir Benbouali have all recovered from their injuries and could be included. Bentaleb’s leadership is reportedly highly valued by Hemdani. Hicham Boudaoui may also return after being omitted from the previous squad for sporting reasons.
The situation surrounding Houssem Aouar remains unresolved. Hemdani is looking for a creative midfielder to support Ibrahim Maza, leaving the door open for Aouar’s inclusion.
Young defender Kelyann Bezahaf is expected to be named in the extended squad. The 20-year-old, who plays for OM, impressed with a composed display against Troyes in the French league at the weekend. OM won the match 0-2 on Sunday.
Bezahaf was called up to the Algeria U23 squad during the previous international break.
There could also be departures from Hemdani’s plans. Adil Aouchiche, Ilan Kebbal and Monsef Bakrar are all considered to be under significant threat of losing their places in the next squad.
