Akim Zedadka could be recalled by Algeria after the right-back’s impressive performance for Sabah FK in Tuesday’s Champions League victory over Slavia Prague.
The 31-year-old made a crucial goal-line clearance at the Baku Olympic Stadium as Sabah FK secured a 2-0 home win without conceding. His performance is understood to have attracted the attention of Algeria head coach Brahim Hemdani.
According to journalist Ait Kaci Ali and the website La Gazette du Fennec, Hemdani and his staff are monitoring Zedadka ahead of Algeria’s two CAN 2027 qualifying matches in November.
The Fennecs will face their first fixture at Tizi-Ouzou on 14 November before travelling to Lome to play Togo on 17 November.
Zedadka has made only one appearance for Algeria, featuring in a 2-1 friendly defeat by Iran on 12 June 2022 under former manager Djamel Belmadi. He has not been selected since September of that year.
The former Lille player was overlooked by previous Algeria manager Vladimir Petkovic but could now be given another opportunity to compete for a place in the squad. He may join players such as Ismael Bennacer, Baghdad Bounedjah, Yacine Titraoui, Hicham Boudaoui and Houssem Aouar, who are also being considered for returns.
A recall would also give Zedadka the chance to challenge for the right-back position. He could replace Saadi Radouani in the squad and compete with Kevin Guitoun, Rafik Messali and Mohamed Azzi.
Rafik Belghali is expected to return on the right side of Algeria’s defence after completing his suspension, with Zedadka potentially providing further competition in that area.
Zedadka has been a regular starter for Sabah FK this season. He has made 12 appearances, starting all 12 matches, and has provided one assist.
His latest contribution came in Baku, where his defensive intervention helped Sabah FK preserve their clean sheet and complete a notable Champions League win against Slavia Prague.