Rafik Belghali is set to return to Algeria duty in November, but his place at right-back is no longer secure as Brahim Hemdani considers an expanding group of alternatives.
The Torino defender missed Algeria’s matches against Zambia and Burundi after serving a two-match suspension imposed following incidents after the quarter-final against Nigeria at CAN 2025. He is eligible to play in the forthcoming double-header against Togo.
Belghali, 24, remains the leading candidate because of his Serie A experience, stamina and attacking qualities as a wing-back. However, two further matches of his suspension are suspended until January 2027, while his early international appearances have not yet established him as an automatic choice.
Akim Zedadka is among the more experienced options available to Hemdani. The 31-year-old started for Sabah against Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League and, despite his side’s 2-1 defeat, produced an encouraging display.
The former Clermont and Lille player has greater European experience than most of his rivals, although he has never managed to establish himself with Algeria. Zedadka has only one cap and remains a relatively unfamiliar figure to the Algerian public in national-team colours. Even so, he is already being discussed as a possible inclusion in Hemdani’s next squad.
Rafik Messali offers a younger alternative. The 23-year-old Toulouse player is gradually becoming an established Ligue 1 defender after moving from an attacking role to right-back. His pace, ability to beat opponents and willingness to get forward fit the modern demands of the position.
Messali has already represented Algeria at youth level and appears to be edging closer to a first senior call-up. His immediate task is to maintain his progress after a career disrupted by several injuries.
Kelyann Bezahaf also gained attention after making a successful first start for Olympique de Marseille. The 20-year-old showed courage, energy and an ability to contribute in attack, while his position at OM adds weight to his case.
A call-up in November could nevertheless come too soon. Bezahaf still needs to establish himself with the under-23 side, where his most recent performances in South Africa were not entirely convincing, and he also needs to build up regular club playing time. Hemdani can continue monitoring his development without rushing him into the senior team.
Saadi Radouani did not take advantage of Belghali’s absence during the previous international window. The USM Alger player brings experience of African football, but his weaknesses were exposed against Burundi.
Samir Chergui can cover on the flank, although he remains primarily a centre-back. Achref Abada provides a similar option, with his versatility adding depth without making him a recognised specialist in the position.
Hemdani therefore has plenty of choices, including Belghali, Zedadka, Messali, Bezahaf, Radouani, Chergui and Abada. His selection can be adjusted according to the system and the opponent.