Karim Benzema stunned by Algerian sensation | OneFootball

Benzema in awe of Algerian talent: “He’s strong!”

Karim Benzema stunned by Algerian sensation

Karim Benzema could only witness the damage on Monday night in the AFC Champions League. Despite a late brace in Doha, the Al-Ittihad striker was unable to prevent his team’s collapse against Al-Duhail (4-2). The match was above all marked by the explosive performance of Adil Boulbina, who put on a commanding display that completely changed the game. At just 22 years old, the Algerian dazzled with a stunning hat-trick, proving unstoppable with every surge and almost single-handedly carrying his team to victory.

Speaking in the mixed zone, Benzema didn’t hide his admiration: “He’s strong!” was all the 2022 Ballon d’Or winner could say, clearly impressed by the young winger’s performance. His coach, Djamel Belmadi, also praised his talent: “He has a bright future ahead... he’s a player with tremendous qualities.”

Adil Boulbina is no stranger to the spotlight. Top scorer in Ligue 1 Mobilis last season, he had attracted interest from several European clubs, notably in France and Belgium, before opting to join Al-Duhail in Qatar. That decision already seems to be paying off. The player has just been called up by Madjid Bougherra for the Algeria A’ team to compete in the Arab Cup, which kicks off in a week… in Qatar, where his meteoric rise continues to unfold.