World Cup 2026: Algeria back after twelve years with real ambitions

Twelve years after its last World Cup appearance, Algeria is back at the 2026 World Cup, led by manager Vladimir Petkovic. The Fennecs, absent from the 2018 and 2022 editions, begin their campaign on June 17 against Argentina, the defending champions.

The friendly victory over the Netherlands (0-1) has fueled hopes, though not without raising questions. Journalist Nabil Djellit, who analyzed the match, noted a dual face to the national team: “In the first half, we saw a team put under pressure, disrupted in midfield, lacking cohesion. And in the second, Petkovic brought on those who represent, I hope, Algeria’s team today and probably tomorrow, with young players who have impressive work rate, technique, and desire.”

For Djellit, the minimum objective is clear: “First objective, qualification for the round of 16. With a parallel issue at stake, that’s whether Vladimir Petkovic continues or not.” The continuity of the Swiss manager would therefore be directly linked to the results obtained in the group stage.

The observer also emphasized the fervor surrounding this qualification in Algeria: “There is strong supporter expectation, excitement, fervor. Algeria has an enchanted history with the World Cup. For Algerians, the World Cup is the Holy Grail.”

The group stage schedule promises to be demanding. After Argentina on June 17 (3am), the Fennecs will face Jordan on June 23 (5am), then Austria on June 28 (4am). Advancing from this group would already be a historic result for a national team that has reached the round of 16 only once, in 2014 in Brazil.