Algeria’s preparations for the final stretch of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers have suffered a major blow with several key players ruled out through injury.
Despite leading their group, Vladimir Petkovic’s side still need points to secure qualification, and a series of significant absences threatens to disrupt their plans ahead of the 9th and 10th rounds of the campaign.
The timing of these setbacks could not be more challenging as the Fennecs aim to finish the qualifying phase strongly and book their place at the tournament.
The defence has taken the hardest hit. Columbus Crew full-back Mohamed Farsi will miss the crucial fixtures after undergoing pelvic surgery.
The procedure will sideline him for two to three months, ruling him out of the remainder of the qualifiers. In addition, Youcef Atal, currently with Al Sadd, picked up an injury while playing for his club and will also be unavailable.
The midfield has also been dealt a serious setback. Houssem Aouar, who joined Al Ittihad after leaving Lyon, sustained a muscle injury during Matchday 4 of the Saudi Pro League.
He has entered a rehabilitation programme and is expected to miss several weeks of action, leaving a major gap in Algeria’s creative structure.
These absences force Petkovic to rethink his tactical approach and reshuffle his starting lineup ahead of the decisive fixtures.
The coach must identify effective replacements and ensure the team maintains its rhythm and intensity despite the depleted squad.
Algeria’s depth and resilience will now come under scrutiny as they attempt to finish the qualification campaign on a high. Petkovic remains focused on the team’s ultimate objective: to protect their lead, sustain momentum, and secure their ticket to the 2026 World Cup.
