U23 AFCON Qualifiers: Algeria suffers away defeat against Eswatini

The Algerian U23 team faced a disappointing start in their 2027 AFCON qualification campaign. In Rafik Saifi's official debut as head coach, the young Fennecs lost 2-1 against Eswatini in Lobamba on Wednesday, November 11. Despite taking the lead in the 40th minute through Gaëtan Bakhouche, who capitalized on a scramble in the box following a set-piece, Algeria could not hold their advantage and conceded two goals. This performance serves as a stern warning ahead of the second leg. The return match is scheduled for November 16 at the 5-Juillet-1962 Stadium in Algiers. To qualify for the tournament in Egypt, which is a vital step toward the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games, the Algerian side must secure a victory by a two-goal margin.