Algeria's U21 Team Advances to Mediterranean Games Final
The Algeria U21 national team has successfully secured its place in the final of the Mediterranean Games in Taranto 2026, following a thrilling victory over their Moroccan counterparts in a penalty shootout (4-3) after the match concluded in a 1-1 draw at the end of regular time. This triumph sets up a highly anticipated match against Tunisia, scheduled for this evening, where the primary goal will be to clinch the coveted gold medal. The final will take place at the Erasmo Yakovoni Stadium in Taranto, starting at 6 PM Algerian time, as the national team strives to conclude their campaign in the best possible manner and achieve Algeria's second gold medal in football history at the Mediterranean Games, following their first win in 1975 during the Games held in Algeria.
In their encounter against Morocco, the Algerian squad came out strong, taking the lead in the 25th minute through a powerful strike from Ben Ahmed Kouhili, a player from Mouloudia Algiers. Kouhili capitalized on a well-executed play from the left flank, sending a fierce shot that found the back of the Moroccan net. The national team had several opportunities to double their lead, while Morocco also posed some threats, notably hitting the crossbar just before halftime.
In the second half, Morocco managed to equalize in the 72nd minute, taking advantage of a ball inside the penalty area, which brought the match back to a stalemate. Despite both teams' efforts, neither could secure a second goal in the remaining minutes, leading to a tense penalty shootout. Ultimately, the national team emerged victorious, with goalkeeper Mohamed Qabi from Paradou playing a crucial role by saving two penalties. This performance was vital, especially after Kouhili missed the first penalty for Algeria. The decisive final penalty was executed by player Mohamed Faiz Belkhoury, sending Algeria through to the final.
Expectations for the Final Against Tunisia
The success of coach Ibrahim Hamdani's squad reflects their perfect run in Taranto, where they achieved victories in the group stage against Kosovo (2-1), Italy (3-1), and Albania (2-0), before overcoming Morocco in the semifinals. In the final, they will face a formidable Tunisian team that has also had an impressive journey. Tunisia U21 commenced their campaign with a goalless draw against North Macedonia, followed by a narrow victory over Morocco and a 2-1 win against Turkey, finishing the group stage at the top with seven points.
In the semifinals, Tunisia faced the strong Italian side, benefiting from home support. After trailing in the first half, the Tunisian team equalized in the 60th minute and subsequently took the lead, securing a 3-1 victory with a goal in stoppage time. Guided by coach Anis Boujelben, Tunisia has displayed remarkable resilience throughout the competition, remaining unbeaten with three victories and only one draw, which sets the stage for a real test of Algeria’s capabilities in the final.
This final holds special significance for the Algerian coaching staff, led by Ibrahim Hamdani and his assistant Hussein Al-Arfi, as it marks their first official test since taking charge of the national team in this competition. Hamdani was appointed head coach of the U20 national team in July before stepping up to lead the U21 team in Taranto, a transition that occurred in a short timeframe.
The duo of Hamdani and Al-Arfi, who have worked under limited preparation conditions, managed to form a competitive team that has shown a strong character, especially against Italy and Morocco, two of the significant challenges of the tournament. With only one match remaining, they have the opportunity to crown their efforts with a precious medal.
The encounter with Tunisia also carries historical weight for Algerian football, as the last time Algeria reached the final of the Mediterranean Games was in 1993, where they secured the silver medal. Algeria previously claimed gold in 1975 and bronze in 1979, presenting the U21 team with a chance to write a new chapter in Algerian participation history and move closer to a second gold medal in football, after a 51-year wait.
As reported by annasronline.com.
