Algeria forward Amine Gouiri has been released from the national team squad after suffering an injury during the 3-1 victory over Zambia in the opening round of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
The Marseille striker was forced to leave the pitch in the 20th minute of Friday’s match in Tizi Ouzou, with Amin Chiakha coming on as his replacement.
Gouiri subsequently underwent further medical examinations on Saturday, with Algeria’s medical staff deciding not to take any risks with the forward.
According to Ennahar TV and El Hayat TV, Gouiri has therefore been released from the remainder of the Fennecs squad and is expected to continue his treatment in France.
The decision means Algeria could be without the 26-year-old for their next two fixtures.
The Greens are scheduled to travel to Burundi on Tuesday for their second 2027 AFCON qualifying match. Algeria are also due to face Niger in a friendly on 6 October in Tizi Ouzou.
Gouiri’s absence would leave Algeria with another attacking decision to make as coach Brahim Hemdani prepares for the upcoming matches.
The forward had made a strong start to the season before joining the national team, recording four goals and one assist in six appearances for Marseille, including five starts.
However, his latest injury has now interrupted his involvement with the national side.
The Algeria medical staff have opted for caution following the examinations, with the forward set to remain in France to continue his recovery.
“The Greens’ medical staff has decided to release Amine Gouiri following his injury in the last match.”
“The forward underwent thorough examinations this Saturday.”
“The staff will take no risks for the upcoming matches.”
Gouiri’s release comes shortly after another change to Algeria’s squad.
Rayan Aït-Nouri was also released from the national team camp following an incident during Friday’s victory over Zambia.
His departure followed an incident involving the Manchester City full-back and the technical staff during the match.
With both players now unavailable for the upcoming fixtures, Algeria’s squad will have to adapt as preparations continue for the Burundi qualifier.
Gouiri’s injury could provide an opportunity for Chiakha, who replaced him during the Zambia match.
The 20-year-old Rosenborg forward could now be given more playing time as Algeria look to find an alternative option in attack.
There is also a potential opening for Monsef Bakrar.
The 25-year-old Al Ahly forward remained on the bench during the victory over Zambia and could now be considered for a greater role in the absence of Gouiri.
Algeria began their 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign with a 3-1 home victory over Zambia, giving them three points from their opening match.
Their attention will now turn to Burundi, but Hemdani’s squad preparation has been affected by the departures of Gouiri and Aït-Nouri.
