Algeria draw up shortlist for October friendly as squad rebuild begins

Algeria are in talks with three possible opponents for an international friendly in October, with Mali, Niger and Chad understood to be the options under consideration, according to winwin.

The match would most likely take place after the first two games of Algeria’s 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign. The Fennecs are due to face Zambia and Burundi during the international window scheduled from 21 September to 6 October.

The Algerian Football Federation (FAF) is reportedly discussing the details of a potential fixture with the federations of all three countries. Mali are ranked 53rd in the world by FIFA, while Niger are 114th and Chad are 183rd.

No final decision has yet been announced, but the proposed friendly would give Algeria an opportunity to assess their squad at the start of the 2026-27 season. The team is expected to undergo significant changes following Vladimir Petkovic’s departure and the international retirements of influential players including Riyad Mahrez and Aissa Mandi.

The fixture would also offer the coaching staff a first chance to examine the team’s new structure before a new permanent manager takes charge. Anthar Yahia is currently expected to oversee the side in the interim.

Yahia, the former Algeria captain, has reportedly prepared an extended list of around 50 players from which he could select a final squad of 26, winwin reports. He won 53 international caps and scored six goals during his playing career.

The changes come after what has been described as the failure of the 2026 World Cup campaign, with further surprises expected as Algeria look to reshape their squad. One anticipated return is that of Amin Chiakha, who has not been called up since March.

Chiakha ended last season strongly with Rosenborg, scoring seven goals and providing two assists in six matches. His form has reportedly placed him among the players being considered for a return to the national team.

The October fixture would therefore serve two purposes for Algeria: providing another competitive test during the early stages of their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualification programme, while also helping the coaching staff evaluate possible replacements and new additions during a period of transition.

The FAF is yet to confirm which of Mali, Niger or Chad will be selected, with negotiations with the three federations still ongoing.