World Cup Preview: Algeria

Algeria return to the World Cup eager to remind the footballing world of their pedigree. The Desert Foxes were one of Africa’s most impressive sides during the 2010s, reaching the knockout stages in 2014 and winning the Africa Cup of Nations in 2019. After missing out on Qatar 2022 in heartbreaking fashion, Algeria have battled their way back to the biggest stage and will believe they have the quality to make an impact.

Fixtures (UK time)

Argentina, June 17, 2am
Jordan, June 23, 4am
Austria, June 28, 3am

How They Qualified

Algeria secured their place in North America by winning their CAF qualification group by seven points, dropping just four points in 10 games. The Desert Foxes combined their traditional technical quality with greater defensive discipline, producing a series of strong performances against regional rivals. Qualification represented an important milestone for a squad determined to atone for the disappointment of missing the 2022 World Cup, and ensured Algeria would return to the finals for the fifth time in their history.

The Manager

Vladimir Petkovic took charge of Algeria in 2024, bringing with him a wealth of international experience. The Bosnian-born coach is best known for guiding Switzerland to the knockout stages of three consecutive major tournaments between 2016 and 2021. Petkovic also enjoyed success at club level with Lazio, winning the Coppa Italia in 2013. Known for his tactical flexibility and calm leadership, the experienced manager has sought to blend Algeria’s established stars with a new generation of talent as the Desert Foxes look to re-establish themselves among Africa’s elite.

The Star

Mohamed Amoura has emerged as one of the most exciting attacking players in African football. The forward’s pace, direct running and eye for goal have made him a key figure for both club and country, while his performances in European football have attracted widespread attention. Amoura’s ability to stretch defences and create chances from seemingly impossible situations gives Algeria a genuine match-winner. Heading into his first World Cup, the forward carries many of the nation’s hopes of causing an upset.

The Familiar Face

Riyad Mahrez became a Premier League icon during Leicester City’s astonishing title triumph in 2015-16, earning the PFA Players’ Player of the Year award before moving to Manchester City. Under Pep Guardiola, Mahrez won multiple Premier League titles, domestic cups and the UEFA Champions League. Internationally, he captained Algeria to Africa Cup of Nations glory in 2019 and has spent more than a decade serving as the face of the national team. Although he is now in the latter stages of his career, Mahrez’s quality and experience remain invaluable.

Did you know?

Algeria’s famous nickname, the Desert Foxes, comes from the fennec fox, a small nocturnal animal with enormous ears that is native to the Sahara Desert and is also a national symbol of the country.

The Prediction

Round of 32

Group J looks likely to revolve around Argentina, leaving Algeria, Austria and Jordan battling for the remaining qualification places. The Desert Foxes possess enough quality and tournament experience to finish second, but even a third-place finish could be sufficient under the expanded 48-team format. Petkovic’s side have match-winners throughout the squad and should have enough to progress beyond the group stage. However, a likely meeting with one of the tournament favourites in the knockout rounds could bring their campaign to an end.

Cover Photo: FIFA World Cup 2026 Draw Reception” by UKinUSA is licensed under CC BY SA 4.0 .