Algeria national under-23 football team made a winning start to their international friendly series with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Democratic Republic of the Congo national under-23 football team on Friday evening.
The match, played at the iconic Stade 5 Juillet 1962, marked a successful debut for newly appointed head coach Rafik Saifi, who will be encouraged by both the result and the discipline shown by his side.
In what was a tightly contested encounter, chances were limited in the opening half as both teams focused on defensive organization and midfield control. Algeria showed glimpses of attacking intent but struggled to break down a well-structured Congolese defense before the break.
The decisive moment arrived early in the second half. In the 53rd minute, Mokrane Bentoumi produced a moment of quality, unleashing a powerful left-footed strike from outside the penalty area that left the goalkeeper with no chance. It was a goal worthy of winning any match and ultimately proved to be the difference.
Algeria antics
Following the breakthrough, Algeria demonstrated composure and tactical maturity to protect their lead. Led by captain Adel Bourabaa, the team remained compact and disciplined, denying DR Congo any clear-cut opportunities to equalize.
For Saifi, the result is an early positive sign as he begins to shape his squad. The former international has been tasked with building a competitive team capable of qualifying for the U23 Africa Cup of Nations a tournament that doubles as a pathway to the 2028 Summer Olympics.
This preparation phase is crucial, as the technical team evaluates a mix of locally based players and those plying their trade in Europe. Bentoumi, for instance, currently plays on loan from Le Havre AC, highlighting the blend of domestic and international experience within the squad.
The starting lineup reflected this balance, with Mounir Azria in goal, supported by a defensive line that included Anthony Kilian Khelfa and Abdelhamid Naim. In midfield and attack, players like Abdelmalek Kaleleche and Mohamed Makhloufi contributed to Algeria’s overall structure and attacking transitions.
Attention now turns to the second friendly between the two sides, scheduled for Monday at the same venue. The match will provide Saifi with another opportunity to rotate his squad, assess fringe players, and continue fine-tuning his tactical approach.
While it may only be a friendly, this victory represents more than just a positive result. It sets the tone for a new era under Saifi and offers a glimpse into a team determined to grow, compete, and ultimately secure its place on the continental and global stage.
