AFCON 2023 : Very bad news for Algeria with Amine Gouiri

With just 13 days until the kick-off of AFCON 2023 in Côte d’Ivoire, Algeria is dealt a blow as one of its key players, Amine Gouiri, is officially ruled out of the tournament.

On January 13th, the highly anticipated AFCON 2023 will commence, bringing together 26 players chosen by coach Djamel Belmadi to represent the Algerian national team. Among them was 23-year-old forward Amine Gouiri, who joined the Fennecs just a few months ago.

Amine Gouiri’s Absence at AFCON 2023

The Stade Rennais player was expected to lead the attack for the Greens, but unfortunately, he will not be able to participate in the tournament. The Algerian Football Federation (FAF) officially confirmed his withdrawal on Monday.

The decision to release Amine Gouiri was made in consultation between the national team’s coaching staff and the medical team. This release is a result of an injury preventing the player from taking part in the upcoming TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire in 2023.

Following a comprehensive examination by the national team’s medical staff, in collaboration with his club’s medical records at Stade Rennais FC, it was decided to give the player time to recover properly. The national team delegation and the Algerian Football Federation extend their wishes for a speedy recovery to the player. This setback represents a significant blow for both Algeria and Amine Gouiri.

Algeria at AFCON 2023 with Other Stars

Despite the absence of the talented Algerian forward, there is still quality in the Fennecs’ squad. As expected, Djamel Belmadi will field key players such as Riyad Mahrez, Youcef Atal, Islam Slimani, Baghdad Bounedjah, Ramy Bensebaini, Aissa Mandi, and notably Ismaël Bennacer, who, despite being injured for a significant part of the season, is fit for the competition.

After mixed experiences in France with Brest and Ajaccio, Youcef Belaili lost his place in the selection. However, his outstanding performances in the Algerian league with MC Alger (10 goals and 8 assists in 10 matches) earned him a recall by Djamel Belmadi. Adam Ounas from LOSC is also included. Despite uncertainties due to a recent injury, Houssem Aouar is present for his first AFCON participation with Algeria. However, Amine Gouiri, set to miss the upcoming weeks with Rennes, will not be able to participate.

In the offensive department, Djamel Belmadi has several options, including the shining star of Algerian football, Mohammed Amoura, who excels in Belgium. It is worth noting the absence of Saïd Benrahma due to disappointing performances and a slight altercation with Djamel Belmadi last October. Overall, the Algerian coach has assembled a squad without major surprises, indicating promising prospects for a strong performance in the competition.

An Ambitious Algerian Team at AFCON 2023, but “Not Favorites”

It is crucial to highlight that, as they embark on their journey in the competition, the Fennecs will face Burkina Faso, Angola, and Mauritania in their group. This group presents challenges, but the Algerian coach can rely on an experienced and exceptionally talented team.

After winning the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in 2019 and experiencing an early exit in 2021, the Algerian team enters the 2023 edition cautiously. During a press conference on Sunday, Algerian coach Djamel Belmadi adopted an unusually reserved tone, demonstrating humility that contrasts with his reputation. When asked about his team’s chances, he stated, “We are not the favorites for this AFCON,” placing other nations such as Egypt, Senegal, or Côte d’Ivoire ahead of the Fennecs.

Despite a favorable draw placing Algeria in Group D with Angola, Burkina Faso, and Mauritania, the coach does not seem to overestimate his team’s capabilities. Although progressing to the next round seems well within reach for the North African team, the coach remains vigilant against any unforeseen challenges during this continental rendezvous.