This piece is part of the 2026 World Cup Experts’ Network, featuring insights from premier media outlets across the 48 qualifying nations. As the tournament approaches, which kicks off on June 11, previews from three countries will be highlighted daily.
Strategic Overview
Algeria stands as one of the more enigmatic teams in this World Cup. Statistically, their recent performance is commendable: a friendly win against the Netherlands brought their record to 21 victories, four draws, and three losses in 28 matches under the guidance of Vladimir Petkovic, scoring a total of 67 goals. However, much of this success has come against relatively weak opponents. Their qualification process was smooth, with Guinea and Mozambique, both ranked as Pot C teams in Africa, providing the toughest challenges.
The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations served as a more accurate reflection of their capabilities, showcasing some of the most exciting football of the tournament. The Fennecs experimented with various formations, including a traditional flat four, a five-man defense, and a 4-3-3 that featured dynamic full-backs like Rayan Aït-Nouri and Jaouen Hadjam on the left. They played with high intensity, maintained possession effectively, built patiently from goal kicks, and transitioned smoothly through defensive lines.
However, their campaign took a downturn in the quarter-finals against Nigeria. Petkovic’s initial lineup failed to inspire, his tactical changes came too late, and inconsistent officiating added to the woes of a match where many Algerian players underperformed. This raises a critical question: was this collapse an anomaly or an indication of how they react when facing higher stakes against more formidable opponents? The uncertainty surrounding this aspect contributes to Algeria’s status as an unpredictable entity heading into the World Cup.
Algeria: Group J Matches
16 June vs. Argentina, Kansas City (8 PM local, 17 June 2 AM BST, 17 June 11 AM AEST)
22 June vs. Jordan, San Francisco (8 PM local, 23 June 4 AM BST, 23 June 1 PM AEST)
27 June vs. Austria, Kansas City (9 PM local, 28 June 3 AM BST, 28 June noon AEST)
It’s likely that Petkovic will rely on his players’ technical skills to play an attractive style of football, although this may leave defensive vulnerabilities. One of the major uncertainties lies in determining which players will fill half of the starting positions.
The New Coach
Following a disappointing exit in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, Djamel Belmadi, who previously led the team to continental success in 2019, was dismissed. He was succeeded by Vladimir Petkovic, a change that stirred controversy among fans. Initially, little was known about Petkovic other than his substantial salary, but he quickly navigated the turbulence with a calm demeanor, which proved essential for the situation. His first few months involved a lot of smiles, handshakes, and positive remarks.
Now, more than two years into his tenure, while his initial approach was acceptable during a transitional phase, some have grown weary of his lack of charisma. Nevertheless, both Davide Morandi, the assistant coach, and physio Paolo Rongoni have earned widespread admiration for their contributions over the past two years.
Key Player Spotlight
At 35, Riyad Mahrez continues to be Algeria’s focal point. The former PFA Player of the Year will lead the Fennecs as captain, although he is no longer able to play a full 90 minutes. During the 2025 Cup of Nations, Mahrez was often substituted around the 60-minute mark for Anis Hadj Moussa, a younger winger from Feyenoord. Despite this, he remains capable of delivering moments of brilliance, particularly in the early stages of matches. His younger teammates regard him with respect, knowing they share the pitch with one of Algeria’s football legends.
Rising Star
Ibrahim Maza exemplifies the modern attacking midfielder. At just 20 years old, he adeptly occupies spaces, receives passes on the turn, and progresses the ball with an impressive maturity. His low center of gravity and robust physique enable him to withstand challenges effectively, and his passing and dribbling abilities are already well-developed. He has drawn comparisons to Florian Wirtz, although Maza has arguably made a quicker impact on the international scene than Wirtz has at Liverpool. His standout performances during the 2025 Cup of Nations group stages set the stage for him to shine on the global platform of the World Cup.
Unsung Contributor
While Hicham Boudaoui may not be Algeria’s star player, he could very well be their most crucial asset. Should Mahrez, Maza, or Aït-Nouri experience any setbacks, their absence wouldn’t spell disaster, as there are capable replacements available. However, Boudaoui brings a unique quality to the midfield: relentless energy. The Nice midfielder excels in the box-to-box role, breaking up plays and making tireless runs into the opponent’s area. He consistently covers between 11 and 12 kilometers per match, making him a vital component in the midfield.
Projected Starting Lineup
Fan Expectations
Most Algerian supporters at the World Cup will hail from the North American or European diaspora. Armed with darbukas (goblet drums) and trumpets, they are likely to create a lively atmosphere, particularly with their “1,2,3, viva l’Algérie” chant. Older fans will be particularly eager for the final group match against Austria, as it presents an opportunity to rectify the infamous Disgrace of Gijón, when West Germany and Austria conspired to eliminate Algeria from the 1982 World Cup.
US-Algeria Relations
After achieving independence, Algeria was a key player in the non-aligned movement, balancing relations with both Eastern and Western blocs during the Cold War. Recently, the bilateral relationship has seen fluctuations. Although the United States and Algeria have enhanced cooperation in energy and agriculture, the absence of an American ambassador in Algeria persists due to the Trump administration’s attempts to pressure Algeria and the Polisario Front regarding the Moroccan autonomy proposal in Western Sahara. Algerians, like many Africans, faced a visa bond program requiring deposits of up to $15,000 for a US tourist visa, which was waived in May for individuals holding match tickets. However, according to the local embassy, very few Algerians have completed the application process for attending the World Cup.
