Algeria returns to the World Cup facing a massive challenge

The Algeria national team is ready to play its first match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, but the challenge could hardly be bigger.

The Desert Foxes will take on reigning world champions Argentina in Kansas City in the opening match of Group J.

After a 12-year absence from football's biggest stage, Algeria returns hoping to replicate—or even surpass—the memorable run it enjoyed at Brazil 2014, when it reached the Round of 16 and pushed eventual champions Germany to the limit.

A team that dominated qualifying

Head coach Vladimir Petkovic brings a squad that impressed throughout the African qualifiers.

Algeria combined one of the continent's most productive attacks with a disciplined defensive structure, cruising through qualification and establishing itself as one of Africa's most dangerous teams heading into the tournament.

Now the challenge is translating that form to the World Cup and opening the campaign with a positive result against one of the favorites to lift the trophy.

Algeria's possible lineup

Petkovic will be forced into at least one adjustment after the injury to Ramy Bensebaini, who is unavailable for the World Cup opener.

Goalkeeper: Luca Zidane

Defenders: Youcef Belghali, Aïssa Mandi, Samir Chergui, Rayan Aït-Nouri

Midfielders: Nabil Bentaleb, Hicham Boudaoui

Attacking Midfielders: Riyad Mahrez, Ibrahim Maza, Mohamed Amoura

Forward: Amine Gouiri

Mahrez leads Algeria's hopes

The team's most recognizable figure remains captain Riyad Mahrez, who could be playing in one of his final World Cup tournaments.

Alongside the veteran winger, Petkovic will rely heavily on Mohamed Amoura, who was one of the standout performers during African qualifying after scoring ten goals in ten matches.

Meanwhile, Ibrahim Maza is expected to provide creativity between the lines, while Amine Gouiri will spearhead the attack against what is considered one of the strongest defenses in the competition.

The challenge of stopping the world champions

Algeria understands that discipline and organization will be essential against Argentina.

Petkovic has spent months building a system capable of competing with elite opponents, emphasizing defensive structure, intelligent possession, and quick transitions whenever opportunities arise.

A positive result against the Albiceleste would dramatically change the outlook of Group J and place Algeria in a strong position to challenge for a place in the knockout rounds.

Match Information

• Match: Argentina vs Algeria
• Competition: FIFA World Cup 2026 – Group J
• Date: June 16, 2026
• City: Kansas City, United States
• Head Coach: Vladimir Petkovic
• Captain: Riyad Mahrez

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