Melvin Mastil reflects on emotional Algeria debut

Melvin Mastil has described his first experience with Algeria’s national team as “incredible”, as the Stade Nyonnais goalkeeper reflects on a rapid rise that could take him to the World Cup.

The 23-year-old, who plays in the Swiss second division, has been called up to the Algerian squad and now finds himself on the verge of competing on the global stage.

Speaking in an interview with Swiss outlet Blick, Mastil detailed his first steps within the national team environment, recounting a journey that has taken him from relative obscurity to the international spotlight.

His introduction to the squad began with a personal journey that set the tone for what followed.

“I drove down to Turin with my parents, who had planned a weekend there. So it was the perfect opportunity. I was very excited about this gathering.”

Upon arrival, Mastil was immediately immersed in a new environment, one he described as both welcoming and demanding.

The goalkeeper explained how he was received by staff and players, highlighting the openness within the group.

He also noted the support he received from fellow goalkeepers and teammates during his first days.

“The first training session was supposed to be easy, basic, but there was already a lot of intensity. There are few mistakes, a lot of quality, it’s quite different from what I’m used to. There are world-class players.”

Training quickly exposed him to a higher level of competition.

Mastil spoke about the technical quality within the squad, naming several players who left a strong impression.

“Ramy Bensebaïni, Houssem Aouar, and Amine Gouiri have a lot of ball control, they’re really strong. Adil Aouchiche and Adil Boulbina are also very technically gifted. As is Mohamed Amoura, who has a very powerful shot, I wasn’t necessarily expecting that.”

The intensity of sessions proved to be one of the most striking differences compared to his club experience.

“During training on the second day, the intensity went up another notch. It’s great to be in an environment like this. Some players are impressing me more and more.”

Despite the demanding nature of the sessions, Mastil described the atmosphere within the group as positive and inclusive.

Team activities away from the pitch also played a role in helping him integrate, including moments designed to strengthen team cohesion.

“Otherwise, the group is doing well, everyone talks to everyone. We play a game where we try to guess a player based on their club history and career.”

His progression during the camp reached a significant milestone when he was informed he would start a match.

“And most importantly, I learned that I was going to start against Guatemala! I won’t lie, it put a bit of pressure on me, but it was positive pressure. I was surprised and proud at the same time.”

The experience of matchday brought new emotions.

Mastil described the anticipation leading up to kick-off, as well as the significance of wearing the national team shirt for the first time.

“In the locker room, I discovered my national team jersey, with my name on it. It was a pretty crazy moment.”

Support from senior players played a key role in helping him manage the occasion.

“During the warm-up, Anthony Mandrea (21 caps) shared his experience with me and reassured me quite a bit. Before going onto the pitch, Riyad Mahrez also gave me some advice. He told me to play my game, to be confident, and not to hesitate to clear the ball if there was a dangerous opportunity.”

Reflecting on his debut, Mastil emphasised the pride he felt representing Algeria.

“It’s an enormous source of pride to represent my country. I’m so happy to have made my first appearance for the national team, to have experienced the passion of the Algerian people firsthand, from the pitch. It’s incredible; I still can’t quite believe it.”

Beyond the matches themselves, the goalkeeper also spoke about the broader experience of being part of the squad.

Training sessions, tactical meetings and even moments of rest all contributed to his understanding of life at the highest level.

“The days were pretty much the same, with nothing particularly noteworthy happening. On the first day, at training, we had a visit from Khéphren Thuram and Luciano Spalletti… Otherwise, we went out in town, because we had some free time.”

The contrast between his club environment and the international stage was particularly striking.

“For a guy who plays every weekend at Colovray – with all due respect to my club – in front of around 500 people, to find himself in Juventus’ stadium, with thousands of spectators, mostly Algerians… it’s bound to be something special.”

Mastil concluded by reflecting on the personal significance of the experience and the motivation it provides for the future.

“It was an incredible experience. I’m really happy. I was able to make my family and friends proud by wearing the Algerian jersey, by representing the country in this way. It makes you want to look ahead; the World Cup is a goal.”

His rapid rise illustrates the unpredictable nature of football pathways, with performances at club level opening doors to international opportunities.

As Algeria prepares for upcoming competitions, Mastil’s emergence adds another option to the squad while highlighting the depth of talent being considered.