Adel Boulbina ended a nearly eight-month international goalless drought with a stunning set-piece that drew immediate comparisons to Argentina legend Lionel Messi. The Al-Diriyah player delivered the crucial strike during the second matchday of the Africa Cup of Nations 2027 qualifiers against Burundi.
A Messi-Esque Masterclass in Burundi
Reports noted the technical precision of the effort, pointing out that the Argentine maestro currently sits just two goals shy of becoming the all-time leading free-kick scorer in football history.
Rescuing Algeria from a Two-Goal Deficit
The fixture saw Algeria fall behind by two goals before mounting a rapid comeback. Boulbina’s extraordinary free-kick leveled the scoreline and shifted momentum back to the North African squad.
Finding themselves down by two goals, the team relied on individual brilliance and collective determination to salvage a result within minutes. Boulbina’s contribution proved vital in turning the tide during a high-stakes fixture in the AFCON 2027 qualifiers.
Ending an Eight-Month International Drought
The strike in Burundi marked Boulbina’s first goal for Algeria since January 6. On that date, he secured a decisive victory against the Democratic Republic of Congo during the round of 16 at the Africa Cup of Nations 2025.
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His prolonged absence from the international scoresheet came to an end in spectacular fashion. The performance underscores a strong start to the season for the player, highlighting his growing confidence on the international stage.
Carrying Club Form to National Duty
The player’s resurgence follows a summer transfer to Saudi club Al-Diriyah from Qatar’s Al-Duhail, where he netted two goals across four appearances.
Algeria continues its qualification campaign with momentum restored.
