# Algerian national football team developments

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/algerian-national-football-team-developments
> Updated: 2026-09-27T08:31:56.000Z. Sources: 5. Developments: 4.

The Algerian Football Federation (FAF) is managing transitions within the national football program. While the federation previously planned a special tribute for Riyad Mahrez and Aïssa Mandi during the September-October international break, this ceremony has been postponed to the November international break. Despite the delay, fans provided a spontaneous tribute by chanting Mahrez’s name during Algeria’s recent match against Zambia at the Hocine-Aït-Ahmed Stadium in Tizi Ouzou, the team’s first official appearance since his retirement.

In a recent 3-1 victory against Zambia in Tizi Ouzou, the squad marked a significant transition period following Mahrez’s international retirement. Anis Hadj Moussa, of Feyenoord Rotterdam, has been designated to inherit Mahrez’s iconic number 7 jersey. Hadj Moussa scored during the match and described the jersey as belonging to a ‘legend’. Additionally, Bachir Belloumi earned his first start under coach Brahim Hemdani, playing 70 minutes on the right wing. His father, former African Ballon d'Or winner Lakhdar Belloumi, attended the match and clarified that his previous comments regarding his son’s career were not intended to disparage Hull City, emphasizing that the national team’s collective success is the priority.

Efforts to secure the commitment of 16-year-old dual-national Mezian Mesloub continue. Although the young attacking midfielder has not yet reached an agreement and reportedly wishes to pursue opportunities with another selection, the FAF may involve Mahrez to influence the decision. On the youth level, the Algeria U23 squad, coached by Rafik Saïfi, is preparing for the 2027 CAN U23 qualifiers.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-27: Algeria football team transitions following Mahrez retirement

Algeria defeated Zambia 3-1 in Tizi Ouzou, featuring Bachir Belloumi’s first start and Anis Hadj Moussa scoring while taking over Riyad Mahrez’s number 7 jersey.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/algeria-football-team-transitions-following-mahrez-retirement

### 2026-09-25: Algerian Football Federation postpones tribute for Mahrez and Mandi

The Algerian Football Federation has rescheduled a formal tribute for retired players Riyad Mahrez and Aïssa Mandi to November, following spontaneous fan celebrations during a recent match against Zambia.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/algerian-football-federation-postpones-tribute-for-mahrez-and-mandi

### 2026-09-15: Algeria football news: Mahrez recruitment efforts and U23 preparations

Algeria's football federation may enlist Riyad Mahrez to help recruit young talent Mezian Mesloub, while the U23 squad prepares for upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/algeria-football-news-mahrez-recruitment-efforts-and-u23-preparations

### 2026-09-10: Algerian Football Federation plans tribute for Mahrez and Mandi

The Algerian Football Federation plans a symbolic tribute for Riyad Mahrez and Aïssa Mandi during the September international break to honor their international careers.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/algerian-football-federation-plans-tribute-for-mahrez-and-mandi

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Cite as: Algerian national football team developments. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/algerian-national-football-team-developments