Amine Gouiri’s international break has ended under a cloud after the Marseille forward suffered a left quadriceps problem during Algeria’s 3-1 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying win over Zambia in Tizi Ouzou.
Gouiri withdrawn after 17 minutes
The 26-year-old attacker was forced off early in Friday night’s match, leaving the pitch in the 17th minute after feeling discomfort in his left thigh.
Algeria coach Brahim Hemdani confirmed after the game that Gouiri had suffered a quadriceps alert. Medical tests were carried out on Saturday, after which the Algerian federation decided to release the player from the squad.
- Gouiri was injured in Algeria’s 3-1 victory over Zambia.
- The issue concerns the quadriceps in his left leg.
- Examinations detected signs of a minor lesion.
- No further detail was given on the expected duration of his absence.
Marseille take charge of recovery
With Algeria choosing a cautious approach, Gouiri will return to Marseille and continue treatment at La Commanderie. Olympique de Marseille will now assess his condition ahead of their next club fixtures.
The decision avoids any further international risk for a player who has already experienced a painful setback in the same stadium.
A difficult history in Tizi Ouzou
Tizi Ouzou has brought bad memories for Gouiri in Algeria colours. In October 2025, he sustained a serious shoulder injury there after a collision with Uganda’s goalkeeper.
He underwent surgery following that incident and subsequently missed the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. This latest problem appears considerably less severe, but Marseille will still monitor the forward closely as he returns from international duty.
