This article is part of a collaborative effort among top media organizations from the 48 nations that qualified for the 2026 World Cup. As the tournament approaches, previews from three countries will be featured daily, leading up to the kickoff on June 11.
Understanding the Strategy
Algeria stands as one of the more enigmatic teams in this World Cup. Their recent track record appears impressive, boasting 21 victories, four draws, and three defeats in 28 matches under the guidance of Vladimir Petkovic, during which they scored 67 goals. However, the quality of their opposition has often been subpar. Their qualifying journey was relatively easy, facing only Guinea and Mozambique, both of whom are regarded as weaker teams in the continental context.
The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations provided a more reliable measure of their capabilities, showcasing some of the most thrilling football of the tournament. The Fennecs experimented with various formations, employing a traditional flat four, bolstering their defense with five players, and even utilizing a 4-3-3 setup with Rayan Aït-Nouri and Jaouen Hadjam as dynamic full-backs on the left. They exhibited intense pressing, controlled possession, and built attacks patiently from goal kicks.
However, their quarter-final encounter against Nigeria turned disastrous. Petkovic’s initial lineup was questionable, his tactical adjustments were delayed, and inconsistent officiating compounded the team’s misfortunes, resulting in a night where many players failed to perform. This raises a critical question: was this collapse merely an anomaly, or does it indicate how the team struggles under pressure from formidable opponents? The uncertainty surrounding this issue contributes to Algeria’s status as an unpredictable entity heading into the World Cup.
Algeria: Group J Fixtures
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)
Petkovic is likely to rely on the technical skills of his players to deliver an attractive style of football, albeit at the cost of defensive solidity. However, it remains uncertain who will fill half of the starting positions in the lineup.
The Coach’s Profile
Following a disappointing early exit from the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, Djamel Belmadi, who had previously led the team to victory in 2019, was abruptly dismissed and succeeded by Vladimir Petkovic. This change sparked division among fans. Initially, little was known about Petkovic apart from his hefty salary, but his composed demeanor has helped him navigate the tumultuous atmosphere. Over two years ago, he began his tenure by engaging positively with players and fans alike, although his lack of charisma has become a point of contention for some.
Highlighting the Star Player
At 35, Riyad Mahrez remains the standout player for Algeria. The 2016 PFA Player of the Year will captain the squad, although he is no longer able to complete a full 90 minutes. During the 2025 Cup of Nations, he frequently left the pitch around the hour mark, making way for the younger Feyenoord winger Anis Hadj Moussa. Nevertheless, Mahrez continues to deliver moments of brilliance, especially in the early stages of matches, and his teammates respect him, recognizing they share the field with one of Algeria’s all-time greats.
A Rising Talent to Watch
Ibrahim Maza exemplifies the modern attacking midfielder. At just 20, he adeptly finds space, receives the ball on the half-turn, and advances it with a maturity beyond his years. His low center of gravity and strong lower body enable him to absorb challenges effortlessly, and his passing and dribbling skills are already impressive. Comparisons to Florian Wirtz have emerged, but Maza seems to have made his mark on the international scene more rapidly than Wirtz did at Liverpool. He shone during the group stages of the 2025 Cup of Nations, and the World Cup offers an ideal platform for him to showcase his talent to a global audience.
Recognizing the Unsung Hero
While Hicham Boudaoui may not be Algeria’s star player, his role could prove to be the most critical. If Mahrez, Maza, or Aït-Nouri were to suffer minor injuries, the team would have capable replacements ready to step in. However, Boudaoui brings a unique quality to the midfield that no other player can match: relentless stamina. The Nice midfielder excels in his box-to-box role, disrupting plays and making significant runs into the opponent’s area. He typically covers between 11km and 12km per match, making him a vital asset in the midfield.
Projected Starting XI
Fan Expectations at Matches
Most Algerian supporters at the World Cup will hail from North America or Europe. Armed with darbukas (goblet drums) and trumpets, they are expected to create an electrifying atmosphere, especially with their “1,2,3, viva l’Algérie” chant. Older fans will particularly be eager for the final group stage clash against Austria, hoping to seek retribution for the Disgrace of Gijón, when West Germany and Austria conspired to eliminate Algeria from the 1982 World Cup.
US-Algeria Relations: A Historical Perspective
After gaining independence, Algeria was a staunch supporter of the non-aligned movement, maintaining relations with both Eastern and Western powers during the Cold War. In recent times, the bilateral relationship has fluctuated. While the US and Algeria have strengthened collaboration in energy and agriculture, the absence of an American ambassador in Algeria continues to be a point of tension, especially as the Trump administration seeks to pressure Algeria and the Polisario Front regarding Morocco’s autonomy plan in Western Sahara. Additionally, like many Africans, Algerians faced the visa bond program, requiring a hefty deposit for US tourist visas, which was temporarily waived in May for those holding match tickets. According to the local embassy, only a small number of Algerians have successfully completed the application process to attend the World Cup.
