Amine Gouiri has been released from the Algeria squad after medical tests confirmed a left-thigh injury, ruling the forward out of Tuesday’s Africa Cup of Nations 2027 qualifier against Burundi and the friendly with Niger on 6 October.
The 26-year-old Marseille striker was injured during Friday’s 3-1 home victory over Zambia, Algeria’s opening match in the qualifying campaign. He was substituted in the 20th minute, with Amin Chiakha coming on in his place.
The Algerian Football Federation (FAF) confirmed Gouiri’s departure from the national-team camp in a statement, following reports in the local media.
Gouiri underwent further examinations on Saturday, which showed that he would be unable to take part in either of Algeria’s next fixtures. He has been permitted to leave the squad and will continue his treatment in France.
His absence is the second change to the Algeria camp after the win over Zambia. Rayan Ait-Nouri had already left after Brahim Hemdani sent him home because of his attitude during Friday evening’s victory.
Gouiri had made six appearances for Marseille this season, starting five of those matches and scoring four goals while providing one assist.
His withdrawal creates an opening at the head of Algeria’s attack, with Chiakha now in contention to start in the upcoming fixtures. The 20-year-old, who plays for Rosenborg, replaced Gouiri against Zambia.
Monsef Bakrar could also benefit from the change. The 25-year-old Al Ahly forward was an unused substitute in the victory over Zambia but may now be given more playing time to demonstrate his abilities.
Algeria will visit Burundi on Tuesday for the second round of the CAN 2027 qualifiers before facing Niger in the friendly at Tizi Ouzou on 6 October.