World Cup 2026: Aïssa Mandi backs Algeria to recover after Argentina defeat

Algeria captain Aïssa Mandi has insisted the Fennecs can still revive their World Cup campaign despite suffering a heavy 3-0 defeat to Argentina in their opening match of the 2026 tournament.

The experienced defender acknowledged the superiority of the reigning world champions but stressed that Algeria remain determined to fight for qualification from the group stage.

Argentina’s victory was inspired by Lionel Messi, whose hat-trick proved decisive and left the North African side chasing the game for long periods.

Reflecting on the defeat, Mandi pointed to the influence of the Argentine captain as the defining factor behind the result.

“What made the difference tonight is that they have a player who doesn’t forgive mistakes. He is perhaps the best player of all time. His efficiency is formidable,” Mandi declared after the match.

Stopping Messi had been a key part of Algeria’s preparations heading into the contest. However, despite their efforts to contain him, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner once again demonstrated why he remains one of football’s most influential players.

“We tried to minimize him as much as possible, but it didn’t work. We tried our best and we were well-positioned, but unfortunately we conceded three goals,” lamented the Algerian defender.

While Argentina’s attacking quality played a major role in the outcome, Mandi also admitted that Algeria fell short in the final third.

The Fennecs struggled to create clear opportunities and were unable to consistently test Argentina’s defence throughout the match.

“We weren’t sharp enough offensively either,” he acknowledged.

The defeat leaves Algeria with work to do in Group J, but Mandi remains convinced that the campaign is far from over.

The defender urged his teammates to quickly move past the disappointment and focus on the remaining fixtures, which could still determine their fate in the competition.

“The team can bounce back after this loss. It’s only the start of the tournament. It’s not all about the first match,” he asserted.

Before looking ahead to the next games, he reminded supporters and teammates alike that qualification remains mathematically within reach.

“There are still six points up for grabs. Morale isn’t good tonight because we don’t like losing, but we will bounce back.”

Mandi also delivered a message to Algerian fans following the defeat, calling for continued support as the team attempts to recover from its difficult start.

“Algerian fans must still believe in us. Argentina were superior today, but we are not a team that will be defeated like this. We have a team with character and we will bounce back,” concluded the Greens’ captain.

With two group-stage matches remaining, Algeria’s hopes are still alive, and Mandi’s message was clear: the Fennecs believe their World Cup story is far from finished.