World Cup 2026: Rafik Belghali confident Algeria can rise to Switzerland challenge

Rafik Belghali has said Algeria are fully aware of the improvements required ahead of their World Cup 2026 Round of 32 meeting with Switzerland, as the defender insisted the team are focused on delivering a strong performance in a crucial knockout fixture.

Speaking in the mixed zone just hours before the match, the Algeria full-back underlined the importance of the encounter, describing it as an opportunity for the squad to continue their progress in the tournament and write a significant chapter in their football history.

“It’s a match to make history. We’re going to try to give it our all. We know it’s an important match for the country. We’re going to prepare well again today to win tomorrow.”

Algeria head into the fixture with growing confidence after a mixed group-stage campaign. The team endured a difficult opening match against Argentina but responded positively as the tournament progressed, particularly in a thrilling 3-3 draw with Austria that secured their place in the knockout rounds.

Belghali believes that performance marked a clear step forward for the squad, both in terms of confidence and overall play, despite the result.

“Playing for Algeria gives a lot of motivation, especially in a World Cup. In a tournament like this, you have to build momentum. We played well in the third match. Despite the 3-3 draw, our play was much better than in the first two matches.”

Looking ahead to Switzerland, Belghali expects a demanding test against a technically strong opponent. However, he insisted Algeria also possess the quality to compete at a high level and match their European opponents.

He pointed to the squad’s recovery after the Austria match and highlighted the importance of squad depth and experience in handling the demands of a tournament schedule.

“Switzerland is a team with a lot of technically gifted players, a bit like us. We recovered well after the match against Austria and many of our players are used to playing consecutive matches. I think we’re feeling good. We’re going to give everything to win this match for our fans.”

Defensively, Algeria have faced criticism after conceding six goals in the group stage, but Belghali stressed that the team are actively working to correct their mistakes. He said communication within the squad and with the coaching staff has been central to their preparation.

“We communicate with the coach and amongst ourselves. We know our weaknesses and we know what we need to work on.”

With confidence building and a sense of unity within the squad, Algeria now turn their attention fully to Switzerland, determined to continue their World Cup journey and strengthen their standing in the competition.