At the end of CAN 2025, where the Algerian team’s journey ended in the quarter-finals after a defeat against Nigeria, La Gazette du Fennec drew up a “school report card” of the players, giving each one a grade and a mention.
Among the goalkeepers, having not played a single minute during the CAN 2025, Benbot was not noted. Lucas Zidane came out with a 6.5, praised for his kicking game but penalized by an error at the key moment, while Mandrea gets a 6, dull but serious.
In defense, Bengali (7/10), Belaïd (7/10) et Bensebaini (7,5/10) et Mandi (6/10) are among the generally satisfactory elements of the defensive sector. Conversely, Ait-Nouri (5/10) as well as Tougaï (5/10) disappoint and several players, like Atal, Hadjam, Dorval or Cherguiare not rated due to injuries or insufficient playing time.
In the midfield, Boudaoui impresses with a solid 8/10, while Bennacer reassures before his injury (7/10). Abdelli creates a surprise and stands out as one of the great satisfactions of the tournament, credited with a 7/10. On the other hand, Zerrouki (5/10) et Chaibi (4.5/10) suffered more, between pressure and tactical choices from the coach. Also note that Organized was not rated due to lack of playing time, while Men revealed itself as one of the good surprises of the CAN with a rating of 7/10.
In attack, Mahrez (4.5/10) is judged to be in clear physical decline despite leadership still intact and three important goals during the group stage. Bounedjah (6/10), on the other hand, remains an essential element due to its impact and its role as a point of support. Mute during the CAN, Amoura (5/10) disappoints in terms of expectations, weighed down by physical concerns and declining performance throughout the competition. Hadj Moussa (6,5/10) et Boulbina (6.5/10) are doing well, showing potential and an ability to make a difference, even if progress is still expected. Conversely, Bakers (3/10) missed the opportunity to settle down permanently. Finally, Kebbal et Berkane were not rated, their playing time being too limited not allowing an objective evaluation.
Finally, the worst score is given to the coach Vladimir Petkovic (2.5/10), sanctioned for its failing management of the group and its inability to react to the Nigeriachoices which ultimately weighed heavily on the elimination of Algeria.
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— La Gazette du Fennec (@LGDFennec) January 21, 2026
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