Algeria meet Saudi Arabia in Jeddah as Vladimir Petković tests his squad in November friendly

Algeria take on Saudi Arabia this evening in Jeddah, where the two national teams convene for an international friendly at the Prince Abdullah Al Faisal Stadium.

The match, scheduled for a 17:30 kick-off, forms part of both sides’ preparations ahead of a demanding year of competitive fixtures.

The meeting brings together two teams seeking to refine tactical structures and assess individual performances in a low-pressure environment.

For Algeria, coach Vladimir Petković has opted for a familiar 4-3-3 system, maintaining the spine of his established squad while offering opportunities for several players to strengthen their claims ahead of upcoming qualification commitments.

Match officials will be led by Abdullah Al-Rowaili, assisted by Jumaa Al-Borshaid and Zahi Al-Shammari, with Mohamed Ahmed Al-Sharifl of Qatar appointed as the fourth official.

Petković’s starting line-up features goalkeeper Anthony Mandrea’s understudy, Guendouz, who will guard the posts behind a defensive quartet comprising Chergui, Mandi, Belaïd and Aït-Nouri.

The back line blends experience and youth, with Aït-Nouri’s presence on the left expected to influence both defensive security and attacking transitions.

In midfield, the trio of Zerrouki, Bennacer and Aouar offers balance, ball retention and creativity.

Bennacer, returning to form after previous injury setbacks, is again handed responsibility for dictating the rhythm of play.

Zerrouki’s work rate and tactical discipline complement Aouar’s forward ambition, giving Algeria fluidity between phases.

The attacking front three is anchored by captain Riyad Mahrez, whose leadership and technical quality remain vital to the national side.

Alongside him, Hadj-Moussa provides width and energy, while Bounedjah leads the line, tasked with stretching the Saudi defence and converting the chances that fall his way.

Saudi Arabia, playing at home and buoyed by strong domestic support, approach the contest with the aim of building momentum under their evolving technical setup.

Although the fixture is a friendly, the hosts will view the match as an important marker of progress against one of Africa’s more seasoned sides.

Both nations see this encounter as more than a formality.

It is a chance to test systems, deepen squad cohesion and evaluate players’ readiness for forthcoming competitive demands.

With regional pride and tactical refinement at stake, the evening in Jeddah promises to offer meaningful insight into the direction of each team’s development.