Algeria - Zambia: probable lineups

The Fennecs begin the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against a Zambia side led by Patson Daka and Fashion Sakala

Africa 25 September 2026 at 07:00

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Algeria - Zambia: probable lineups

25.09.26 FT AFCON - Africa Cup of Nations

Algeria

Zambia

Algeria host Zambia in Tizi Ouzou to begin the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers and officially usher in the Brahim Hemdani era.

Algeria host Zambia this Friday, 25 September, at the Hocine-Aït-Ahmed Stadium in Tizi Ouzou, on the occasion of the first round of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. Kick-off is scheduled for 8:00 p.m. Algerian time.

The match will mark Brahim Hemdani’s official debut at the helm of the Fennecs. The Algerian coach has called up 26 players for this first camp, but will have to cope without Nabil Bentaleb, who was injured with Lille and replaced by Adil Bourabaa. Algeria’s lineup remains difficult to predict given the many changes made since the 2026 World Cup.

Probable lineup for Algeria - Zambia

Algeria: Melvin Mastil – Samir Chergui, Sohaib Nair, Ramy Bensebaïni, Rayan Aït-Nouri – Himad Abdelli, Farès Chaïbi, Ibrahim Maza – Mohamed Amoura, Amine Gouiri, Anis Hadj Moussa.

Zambia: Chabu – Mathews Banda, Hamasenya, Chisala, Mwamba – Changa Chaiwa, Liteta, Lungu – Lameck Banda, Daka, Fashion Sakala.

Zambia determined to play without complexes

This lineup reflects the philosophy outlined by Lwandamina, who has no intention of coming simply to defend. The Zambian coach said that his team respected Algeria without fearing them and would seek to win in Tizi Ouzou. Zambia had already sent the Fennecs an initial warning ahead of this trip.

On paper, Daka and Sakala represent the two main threats. Their speed and ability to attack space could force the Algerian defence to remain particularly vigilant, especially during transitions. The official lineups will be announced approximately one hour before kick-off.

Also read: 2027 Africa Cup of Nations: how can you book your ticket to the finals?

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