Rafik Halliche

CURRENT CLUB: Academica (Portugal)

Rafik Halliche was one of the relevations of the Algerian national team during the 2010 World Cup qualification campaign. A highly-rated, fast and strong centerback, he made his name in Portugal with club Nacional, after leaving his native Algeria.

His injuries have halted his progress and have raised question marks aboutd his endurance.

ALGERIAN NATIONAL TEAM

Halliche made his debut in 2008 under head coach Rabah Saadane in a game against Senegal. He replaced emblematic defender, Antar Yahia and became a key figure in a three-man back-line that took the Algerian national team to the World Cup in South Africa.

Lack of playing time and injuries have knocked him down the pecking order, but he is still considered an important player of the squad and a leader.

CLUB CAREER

After starting his career with NA Hussein Dey in Algeria, Halliche was spotted by Benfica and joined the Portuguese giants, who immediately loaned him to CD Nacional. After an unsuccessful stint at English side Fullham between 2010 and 2012, he returned to Portugal and signed with Academica.