Luca Zidane’s absence from Algeria’s squad for the November AFCON 2027 qualifiers against Togo has sparked questions among supporters. Despite the withdrawal of one of the initially selected goalkeepers, head coach Brahim Hemdani did not recall the 28-year-old. According to La Gazette du Fennec, which cites a source close to the situation, the decision reflects sporting considerations rather than any personal or non-sporting issue.
Hemdani reportedly based his selection on the playing time and consistency of the available goalkeepers. Melvin Mastil, Abdelatif Ramdane and Oussama Benbot earned the nod because the coaching staff considers them more competitive options at present. Luca Zidane’s situation at Leganés also appears to have influenced the decision. After starting nine consecutive matches, the goalkeeper lost his place and spent two games on the bench before returning against Albacete, in a 3-1 defeat.
Zidane’s recent statistics have also raised concerns, with 17 goals conceded in ten matches and only three clean sheets. According to the same source, Hemdani does not yet consider him ready to compete for the starting position in the national team. Consequently, the March international window could offer the goalkeeper another opportunity to regain his place in Algeria’s plans ahead of AFCON 2027.
