Algeria’s Youcef Belali Sidelined: AFCON and Arab Cup Dreams Dashed by Knee Injury
In a devastating blow to Algerian football, star winger Youcef Belali has been ruled out of the upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and the Arab Cup after sustaining a severe knee injury. The news sends shockwaves through the national team setup, leaving a significant void in their attacking options.
A Cruel Twist of Fate in Tunisian Derby
The injury occurred during the high-stakes Tunisian derby between Espérance de Tunis and Club Africain this past Sunday. Belali, a key figure for his club, was forced to leave the pitch in visible distress in the 21st minute. Subsequent medical examinations, including an MRI scan, confirmed the team’s worst fears: a complete tear of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his right knee.
This type of injury typically requires a lengthy recovery period, with initial estimates suggesting Belali will be sidelined for approximately six months. This timeline effectively ends his current club season and eliminates any possibility of representing his country in the major tournaments on the horizon.
A Formidable Void in the Algerian Squad
For Algerian national team manager Vladimir Petković, the loss is immeasurable. Belali was widely seen as a cornerstone of the team’s strategy for AFCON 2025, which is set to be hosted in Morocco from December 2025 to January 2026. His unique blend of technical flair, veteran experience, and creative spark in the final third made him an almost irreplaceable asset.
Furthermore, the injury robs him of a chance to feature in the Arab Cup in Qatar this December, where Madjid Bougherra’s squad was expected to be a strong contender. The dual absence from these premier competitions raises larger questions about Algeria’s depth and tactical flexibility.
World Cup Participation Now in Doubt
Looking further ahead, Belali’s race to be fit for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, scheduled for June and July of that year, is now plunged into serious uncertainty. While a six-month recovery is the standard medical prognosis, the journey back to peak competitive form after an ACL rupture is notoriously arduous. The rehabilitation process is both physically grueling and mentally taxing, particularly for a player in the latter stages of his career.
This setback represents another challenging chapter for a player whose career has been a rollercoaster of sublime talent and frustrating interruptions. Known for his fiery temperament and dazzling footwork, Belali now faces the ultimate test of character. His return to the pitch—and his hope of once again pulling on the iconic green jersey of Algeria—will depend on a display of resilience equal to his skill.
Source: DZfoot