Belloumi stakes claim as Algeria’s right-wing battle intensifies

Mohamed Bachir Belloumi has strengthened his case for a regular place in the Algeria team after scoring in successive matches against Burundi and Niger, adding further uncertainty to the search for Riyad Mahrez’s successor on the right.

The Hull City winger followed his goal in the 2-2 draw with Burundi by scoring again in Tuesday’s 2-1 victory over Niger. His latest contribution came from a direct free-kick, a strike which recalled the technique of his father, Lakhdar Belloumi.

Belloumi was introduced in the first half after Ibrahim Maza was forced off injured. At a time when Algeria had struggled to create a significant attacking threat, the 24-year-old helped revive the team and gave them greater urgency in the final third.

His impact was particularly notable given the ground he had lost in recent years. Injuries had repeatedly interrupted his progress, while he was sometimes overlooked despite showing clear ability. This international break offered him an opportunity to re-establish himself in the squad’s rotation, and he has taken it.

Against Burundi, Belloumi was one of the main figures in Algeria’s recovery alongside Adil Boulbina. His performance against Niger was marked by greater confidence, with more willingness to take responsibility and attack defenders. That directness has been valuable for a side which has occasionally lacked players capable of changing the rhythm of a match.

There were still signs that Belloumi has work to do before he can claim a starting place. He missed a clear chance during the final quarter of the game against Niger, underlining the need for greater consistency and efficiency.

That requirement carries extra importance for Algeria because the team is still looking for a reliable reference point at centre-forward. The more the wide players contribute to the goals total, the greater their influence on the team’s attacking balance.

Belloumi is not yet an automatic selection, but his two appearances have altered his standing. He made effective use of his playing time during the camp and achieved something several other players did not: he moved himself higher in the pecking order.

The competition is likely to become more demanding when Anis Hadj Moussa returns. The Feyenoord winger had to leave the squad early after the opening match, but remains one of the leading candidates to succeed Mahrez.

The two players offer different qualities. Hadj Moussa is particularly effective in one-on-one situations and in tight areas, where his dribbling can create openings. Belloumi is more direct and tends to attack the space behind the defence.

With a two-match meeting against Algeria’s main rival, Togo, approaching, Brahim Hemdani now has two credible options for the right wing. The post-Mahrez succession remains unresolved, but Belloumi has ensured his name is firmly part of the discussion. The next response must come from Hadj Moussa.