After three matches, Hamdani faces positives and shortcomings with the Greens

After three matches under Ibrahim Hamdani, the Greens have a mixed record: the results have been relatively acceptable, but several shortcomings have emerged. The training camp, held at the end of September and the beginning of October, featured a win against Zambia, a draw in Burundi and a friendly victory over Niger. Observers have highlighted defensive errors and modest attacking output, areas that need work to improve cohesion and effectiveness ahead of the next official fixtures.

The match against Niger also served as a test for several substitutes. Ramadan, Touba, Bekkour, Ouachiche and Kebbal were among the changes to the starting line-up. The game gave the coaching staff an opportunity to assess them and inform its decisions going forward. Hamdani is continuing efforts to improve the team’s overall performance and coordination.

Defence stands out as a key area to address. In Burundi, poor passes and misjudgements allowed the home side to score twice in quick succession. Against Niger, another lapse gave an opposing attacker the chance to enter the penalty area and catch goalkeeper Ramadan by surprise. The midfield also lacks balance, partly because of enforced changes and the absence of players able to make a difference in that area. These problems have made it harder to build attacks and provide defensive cover.

Up front, the seven goals scored overall — including five in two official matches — have not lifted the attack to the expected level. Belloumi has scored twice in three games. Boulbina has made a positive contribution, while Maza has strengthened the midfield and supported the attack. Amoura, meanwhile, is enduring a relatively long goal drought: his last goal for the Greens came in November last year against Zimbabwe.

The three games have nevertheless shown an ability to respond. In Burundi, they scored twice to avoid defeat. Against Niger, Belloumi equalised before Ramy Bensebaini put his side ahead with a penalty. Set pieces have therefore provided one source of threat, but the team still needs other ways to break down opponents and must cut out the errors that have marked the start of Hamdani’s tenure.