CAF Awards 2026: The Algerian team, Maza, USM Alger, and CR Belouizdad are among the nominees.
The Confederation of African Football has unveiled the various candidate lists for its annual ceremony. It is clear that Algerian football holds a prominent place, with representatives in nearly all categories. Men's national team, clubs, goalkeeper, young talent, female players: it is rare for an award not to feature an Algerian name. However, no Algerian player has been nominated for the African Player of the Year award (Ballon d'Or), which is not surprising.
The Greens Compete for Best African National Team Title
The national team is in the running for the trophy of the best team on the continent. Two factors support their case: a quarter-final reached in the last Africa Cup of Nations and qualification for the Round of 32 in the World Cup hosted in North America.
However, the competition is expected to be fierce. Morocco, the runner-up in the AFCON and quarter-finalist in the World Cup, has a sporting advantage that is hard to contest.
USM Alger and CR Belouizdad Selected Among Clubs
Two clubs from Algiers are featured in the category of the best teams on the continent. The presence of the Soustara team is no surprise: their title in the CAF Confederation Cup against Zamalek, after an endless penalty shootout, was complemented by a victory in the Algerian Cup. This makes for a strong case.
They could even add to their collection very soon. On Sunday, in Pretoria, a second continental trophy will be at stake against Mamelodi Sundowns during the CAF Super Cup. A victory would crown an already exceptional period.
As for Chabab, their nomination is explained by a run to the semi-finals of the same Confederation Cup. Algerian clubs remain very active on the African scene, as highlighted by the group stage draw, which was favorable for USMA and significantly more challenging for Mouloudia.
ALSO READ: Algeria Team: The Outline of Hemdani's List Becomes Clear
Khaldi and Belhocini Aim for Best Player in Africa Award
The award honoring footballers who remain on the continent includes two Algerians. Ahmed Khaldi, a forward for USMA, and Abdenour Iheb Belhocini, a member of CRB, have been selected by continental authorities.
The former arrives with impressive statistics. He was the top scorer for his team last season with thirteen goals, four of which came during the African campaign. This was a direct contribution to the title won by his club.
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Maza and Benbot Carry Algerian Hopes in Individual Categories
In the youth category, Ibrahim Maza is in contention for the best young talent award on the continent. The attacking midfielder, considered one of the most promising of his generation, had already gained recognition at the global level, with his reaction to Lionel Messi's vote for the Kopa Trophy widely circulated. The competition looks open against Ivorian Yan Diomandé and Moroccan Ayyoub Bouaddi.
In goal, Oussama Benbot will defend his chances for the title of best African goalkeeper. His successful season under the USM Alger jersey earned him a call-up among the twenty-six players selected for the World Cup, a testament to his steady progress.
ALSO READ: Ibrahim Maza Reacts to Lionel Messi's Vote for the Kopa Trophy
Women's football is not left out. Defender Marine Dafeur is on the list of candidates for Player of the Year, while Chloé N’Gazi is in the running for the goalkeeper award. These two nominations complete an Algerian harvest that is rarely as abundant during these CAF Awards.
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