Djamel Benlamri: "We feel a certain nervousness within the national team."

Sep 30, 2026

Consultant for beIN Sports, Djamel Benlamri made a harsh assessment following Algeria's draw against Burundi, particularly highlighting defensive weaknesses, midfield issues, and certain choices made by the coaching staff.

Now a consultant for beIN Sports after leaving the sporting director role at MC Alger at the end of the last summer transfer window, Djamel Benlamri offered a rather critical analysis of the 2-2 draw Algeria faced against Burundi. The former international expressed concern over certain deficiencies observed in the Greens, especially in defense.

“I do not understand the defensive problems and the huge errors in the national team's defense, as if the spaces had become open avenues,” he stated. Benlamri also pointed out the lack of collective cohesion: “The team lacked identity, especially in midfield.” According to him, the performance of some players also raises questions, adding that Chiakha could not replace Baghdad Bounedjah equivalently.

The former defender also believed that certain decisions by the coaching staff influenced the course of the match. “Substituting Boulbina was a mistake,” he argued, noting that the forward had brought movement and dynamism. This comment adds to his criticisms regarding the individual performances of several players.

However, Benlamri tempered his analysis by emphasizing that the statistics remain encouraging. “Mathematically, the national team's numbers are good, but the team's spirit is starting to raise concerns. We are beginning to perceive that the selection is shaky, and the coach needs to instill a real personality into this team.” A harsh observation after a match where the Greens were forced to chase the score.

DZfoot