Doha, Qatar – Algeria emphatically asserted their dominance in the FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025, defeating Bahrain 5-1 on Friday in a Group D match at Khalifa International Stadium. Goals from Redouane Berkane (24th & 48th minutes) and Adil Boulbina (30th & 80th minutes), along with a penalty converted by Yassine Benzia, secured a crucial victory for the defending champions. This win significantly boosts Algeria’s chances of progressing to the knockout stages of the Arab Cup.
The match, a key fixture for both teams, saw Algeria take early control, although Bahrain briefly equalized before the first half concluded. The result leaves Bahrain facing elimination, while Algeria looks ahead to a decisive final group stage match. The impressive performance was largely fueled by players currently based in the Qatar Stars League.
Algeria’s Qatar-Based Players Shine in Arab Cup Victory
Al Wakrah’s Berkane opened the scoring for Algeria, setting the tone for an attacking display. Bahrain responded quickly through Mahdi Abduljabbar, leveling the score and momentarily silencing the Algerian supporters. However, Algeria’s reaction was swift and decisive.
Berkane then turned provider, assisting Al Duhail’s Boulbina to regain the lead for the ‘Desert Foxes’. The momentum continued to swing in Algeria’s favor, demonstrated by Berkane earning a penalty which Benzia successfully converted just before halftime. This stretched Algeria’s lead to 3-1, putting them in a commanding position.
The second half saw Algeria further cementing their advantage. Berkane notched his second goal of the night, effectively ending Bahrain’s hopes of a comeback. Algeria continued to press, showcasing their attacking prowess and solidifying their position at the top of Group D.
A Team Effort with Qatari League Influence
Algeria’s final goal came courtesy of a well-worked move involving substitute Yacine Brahimi of Al Gharafa, whose clever pass found Boulbina for his second. The influence of players from the Qatar Stars League throughout the match was apparent, with several key contributions coming from those plying their trade domestically.
Following the match, Brahimi emphasized the team’s determination to build on this result. “We wanted to show a reaction after the draw in the first game,” Brahimi said, highlighting the importance of securing all three points.
Al Sadd’s Youcef Atal echoed this sentiment, stressing the need for focus and commitment. “At this level, there is no easy match,” Atal commented, underscoring the competitive nature of the tournament and the importance of maintaining a high level of performance. The team’s confidence in the Qatar environment appears to be a significant factor.
Bahrain’s defeat marks their second consecutive loss in the group stage, effectively eliminating them from contention for a quarter-final spot. They will be looking to salvage some pride in their final match but face an uphill battle. The tournament, a precursor to the 2027 AFC Asian Cup also hosted by Qatar, provides valuable experience for teams across the region.
Algeria now focus on their final Group D match against Iraq on Tuesday. A win or even a draw would guarantee their progression to the quarter-finals. The outcome of that match will determine whether they finish as group winners or runners-up. The performance of the Algerian squad, and particularly their Qatar-based players, will be a key storyline to watch as the competition progresses.
The standings in Group D are becoming clearer, and the upcoming clash between Algeria and Iraq is poised to be a thrilling encounter. The potential for upsets remains, and the team’s ability to maintain their form and adapt to different opponents will be crucial to their success in the remaining stages of the Arab Cup.
