Algeria Defends Title in Evenly Matched Iraq-Bahrain Clash at Premier Football Tournament

Algeria kicks off their Arab Cup defense today against Sudan, looking to repeat their 2021 triumph when they won the tournament with a reserve squad. The defending champions face a tricky Group 4 that also features Iraq and Bahrain, with both matches taking place as the competition gets underway.

Coach Majid Bougherra has assembled an experienced squad for Algeria's title defense. The roster includes veteran striker Islam Slimani alongside established names like Yacine Brahimi, Youcef Atal, Adam Ounas, Amir Sayoud, and Zakaria Draoui. This marks a shift from their previous approach - Algeria won the 2021 edition using mostly backup players, beating Tunisia 2-0 in the final.

Sudan presents an interesting challenge. The "Nile Crocodiles" qualified by edging Lebanon 2-1 in the playoffs and bring some recent psychological advantage. Under Ghanaian coach Kwasi Appiah, Sudan knocked out Algeria on penalties in the quarterfinals of last summer's African Nations Championship, proving they can trouble their North African neighbors.

The group's other match pits Bahrain against Iraq at Stadium 974. Iraq arrives in strong spirits after securing an Asian playoff spot for the 2026 World Cup. Australian coach Graham Arnold hopes to capitalize on this momentum as the "Lions of Mesopotamia" aim for their first major tournament success in years.

Bahrain enters with mixed recent form but carries historical pedigree. The island nation reached the final twice before, in 1985 and 2002. Their last Arab Cup appearance ended disappointingly with just one point from the group stage - ironically earned against Iraq. Croatian coach Dragan Talajic guided them through qualifying with a narrow victory over Djibouti, thanks to Mohammed Al-Rumaihi's decisive goal.

The tournament format means every match carries weight. With only the top teams from each group advancing, today's results could shape the entire knockout phase. Algeria's experience gives them the edge on paper, but Sudan's recent upset and Iraq's World Cup qualifying buzz make Group 4 one to watch closely.