Team Profile

Algeria, one of the largest countries on the vast continent of Africa sits in a strategic position and was the set for many fierce battles including the brutal civil war which ended with Algeria's independence from France in 1962.

Like most Saharan countries, chess or "shatranj," crossed the Sahara with Muslims traders and soon developed a following. Algeria appears supportive  of chess and has produced several IMs including the Rizouk twins, Aimen and Ryad… both only 23. Unfortunately, neither will be in Bled.

While Aimen is the nation's #1 player, the most recent star may be untitled Saad Beloudah who will hold down board #1 for the Algeria side. The national team is getting younger as only one player is older than 25 years (Kamel Sebih). Who will become the nation's first GM?