Algeria’s Fennec foxes Head Coach, Madjid Bougherra has lauded the qualities of experienced midfielder Yacine Brahimi following Algeria’s 5-1 victory over Bahrain in the FIFA Arab Cup on Saturday.
According to Bougherra, Brahimi is an important player who made instant impact with his experience as the team’s confidence blossomed.
Speaking after the game, gaffer Bougherra revealed why the experienced midfielder did not play a part in Algeria’s goalless draw with Sudan in their opening game.
“Yacine before this game was injured, and we do not take the decision very fast. We check with the Doctor, and we think if everything is possible for Brahimi to come into the second game, so yes,” he said.
Quizzed on the veteran’s significance to the team, Bougherra praised his presence which boosted the team’s spirit as Brahimi assisted the fifth goal, assuring the former French youth international inclusion in their last group game against Iraq.
“Especially as a player he is very important with his experience, and we think when he came into the field, the team’s confidence grew. With the pressure on his shoulders, he changed the face of the game and also assisted a goal, so yeah he will be available for their next game”.
Brahimi was an unused substitute when Algeria shared spoils with Sudan in a disappointing goalless draw on December 3.
However, the former FC Porto man came a cameo in the 64th minute and quickly changed the rhythm of the game with his creative passes and exceptional dribbles.
He assisted Adil Boulbina to fetch the fifth goal and his second with another brace from Redouane Berkane and a goal from Yassine Benzia.
Born in France, Brahimi represented the country at all youth levels before switching allegiance to play for Algeria in 2013.
He went on to play at the 2014 FIFA World Cup and the 2015, 2017, 2019 and 2021 Africa Cup of Nations, winning the 2019 edition.
At club levels, he had stints in France, Spain, Portugal and currently plies his trade with Al-Gharafa SC in the Qatar Stars League.
After two games, Algeria has 3 points and will face Iraq in their last group match on December 9.
A win will progress Madjid Bougherra and his charges to the next round of the tournament.
Story Written By: Linus Siaw Nartey, Qatar / Kobby Kyei News
