Algeria: Vladimir Petkovic ends goalkeeper debate as Alexis Guendouz and Luca Zidane take charge

Algeria coach Vladimir Petkovic has finally settled one of his most persistent selection dilemmas, confirming Alexis Guendouz as his first-choice goalkeeper and welcoming Luca Zidane as a reliable deputy — effectively ending a long-standing debate over the national team’s goalkeeping hierarchy.

The uncertainty that surrounded the position in recent months — exacerbated by Raïs Mbolhi’s inactivity and Anthony Mandréa’s relegation to France’s third division — now appears resolved.

Petkovic, who has spent more than a year and a half trying to establish clarity in goal ahead of both the Africa Cup of Nations and the 2026 World Cup, has quietly brought stability to a position that once looked fragile.

Ironically, it was Luca Zidane, once viewed as a potential source of contention, who helped close the matter.

His integration into the national setup has given Petkovic the balance he was seeking — a blend of experience, youthful energy, and renewed confidence.

With Guendouz firmly holding the No.1 shirt and Zidane establishing himself as a capable No.2, Algeria now possess the depth and assurance they have long lacked between the posts.

A calculated show of trust
Petkovic’s recent decisions during the October international window underlined his managerial acumen.

By starting Guendouz in the crucial World Cup qualifier against Somalia in Oran, the Bosnian tactician reaffirmed his faith in the Mouloudia Algiers goalkeeper.

The message was clear: the position remains his to lose.

At the same time, Zidane’s substitution appearance in that game — followed by a full start in the friendly against Uganda — demonstrated that the former Real Madrid player is firmly part of the coach’s plans, though not handed any privileges because of his famous surname.

Petkovic’s management of the situation ensured both goalkeepers felt valued while keeping competition alive and egos in check ahead of the AFCON in Morocco.

Benbot remains third choice
Oussama Benbot, meanwhile, remains the team’s third goalkeeper — a role that, while limited in playing time, contributes to the squad’s overall balance.

The clear delineation of responsibilities has brought a rare sense of calm to Algeria’s goalkeeping department, allowing the players to focus on performance rather than hierarchy.

Decision to come in November
Petkovic is expected to use the November international window to make his final assessment on who will start Algeria’s AFCON campaign as first-choice goalkeeper.

Guendouz’s strong domestic experience and composure under pressure make him an appealing option, while Zidane’s pedigree — shaped by his time at Real Madrid and exposure to high-level European football — provides a compelling alternative.

Whichever way Petkovic leans, Algeria now face the upcoming tournaments with a settled, confident, and competitive goalkeeping unit — a stark contrast to the uncertainty that plagued them for years after Mbolhi’s decline.