Bensebaini forced off injured, Borges Sanches scores on debut

While Ramy Bensebaini had to be substituted due to injury in Algeria’s 1-1 World Cup qualifying draw against Burkina Faso, youth player Yvandro Borges Sanches scored on his first full international start as Luxembourg drew 1-1 against Qatar.

After starting the game in Burkina Faso, Algeria’s Bensebaini was substituted in the 57th minute of the World Cup qualifier after suffering a groin problem. A more exact diagnosis is to follow. Sofiane Feghouli gave Algeria the lead in the 18th minute, before Abdoul Tapsoba equalised for the home side just after Bensebaini’s substitution (64’).

After his side’s 2-0 win over Bosnia & Herzegovina last weekend, Conor Noß made another brief appearance for Ireland U21 in Tuesday’s 1-1 EURO U21 qualifying draw against Luxembourg. Borussia’s midfielder replaced Dawson Devoy in the 80th minute, just before Dylan Kuete equalised for Luxembourg from the penalty spot. Colm Wheland had given Ireland the lead in the 70th minute. The draw was Noß’ sixth cap at U21 level for Ireland.

In Yvandro Borges Sanches’ first international start, Borussia’s striker also registered his first goal for his country. The 17-year-old gave Luxembourg the lead over Qatar in the 31st minute. Borges Sanches received the ball in a central area and hit his shot first time into the back of the net. Goalkeeper Yussuf Hassan got something on the ball but could not prevent the goal. The young striker, who is playing for the club’s U19 team, completed 90 minutes in the friendly and saw his side concede a late equaliser at the hands of Abdulaziz Elamin.