Boudaoui injured against Paris FC: major blow for Algeria

Africa 28 September 2025 at 11:12

Mahdi Zakaria LAZRI

News Editor

OGC Nice were held to a 1-1 draw by Paris FC on Matchday 6 of Ligue 1 McDonald’s at the Allianz Riviera. Franck Haise opted to leave Hicham Boudaoui on the bench at kick-off, preferring to start Salis Abdul Samad. Coming on at halftime, the Algerian international endured a bitter evening: after suffering a physical setback, he was forced to leave the pitch in the 78th minute, replaced by Morgan Sanson. This setback comes just as Boudaoui was establishing himself as a central figure in Nice’s setup, enjoying one of the best spells of his career.

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Growing concern for Petkovic

Beyond OGC Nice, this injury rings a real alarm bell for the Algerian national team. Just days before Vladimir Petkovic announces his squad for the October camp, the potential absence of the midfielder would be a massive setback. An undisputed starter, Boudaoui was set to be a key player in the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers. The Greens will face Somalia in Oran before hosting Uganda at the Hocine Aït Ahmed Stadium in Tizi Ouzou. Two fixtures where a win would mathematically secure Algeria’s qualification.

While the length of Boudaoui’s absence is yet to be determined, there is genuine concern: the prospect of him missing such a crucial camp could have significant implications for the Fennecs’ future.