Benzia aims to enhance Algeria’s FIFA Arab Cup defense once hailed as the ‘next Benzema’
Algeria’s national football team is gearing up to defend its FIFA Arab Cup title, with former French youth star Yassine Benzia playing a crucial role. The tournament begins with a match against Sudan at the Ahmad bin Ali Stadium in Doha. Coach Madjid Bougherra has included four players from the Roshn Saudi League in his 23-man squad, highlighting the league’s influence on the team’s performance.
Benzia: A Player of Promise
Yassine Benzia, now with Al Fayha, was once touted as the “next Karim Benzema” after showcasing his talent during the FIFA Under-17 World Cup in 2011. The midfielder scored five goals in the tournament, leading to a contract with Olympique Lyon. His career has since taken him through several clubs, including Lille, Fenerbahce, and Olympiacos, before joining Qarabag in Azerbaijan.
International Career and Recent Form
In 2016, Benzia switched his international allegiance from France to Algeria. Since then, he has earned six caps, despite a significant gap in appearances between 2018 and 2024. His return to the national squad was marked by a stunning goal against South Africa, which was even nominated for the FIFA Puskas Award.
Benzia is currently on the rebound with Al Fayha, where he has successfully adapted to a new role in midfield. In the recently concluded Azerbaijani league, he scored 28 goals over two seasons. Although he managed only one goal in ten matches with Al Fayha, his contributions go beyond mere scoring.
Impact on the Field
- Benzia acts as a vital link between attack and defense, contributing significantly to Al Fayha’s midfield structure.
- He has excelled in completing passes, ranking third in the league for overall pass completions and second in tackles at Al Fayha.
- This season, Benzia’s role shifted to a deeper midfield position and occasionally on the left side of a three-man midfield.
Last time out against Al Ettifaq, he broke his goal drought in the league with a well-placed volley, boosting his confidence ahead of national duties. With the FIFA Arab Cup approaching, he aims to play a more offensive role against Sudan.
Looking Ahead
As Algeria prepares for its opener against Sudan, Benzia expressed strong intentions to make the fans proud. The national team, filled with players from the Roshn Saudi League, is focused on achieving victory and retaining their championship title.
The upcoming tournament serves not only as a defense of their trophy but also as preparation for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America. Algeria’s players, including Benzia, will carry the hopes and pride of their nation into each match.
