Algeria head coach Vladimir Petkovic has unveiled his 26-man squad for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, as the Fennecs prepare to take on Botswana and Guinea in matchdays seven and eight of the campaign.
Currently sitting at the top of their group with 15 points, Algeria are in a strong position to secure qualification during this international window. The matches—scheduled to be played against Botswana and Guinea—could prove decisive, depending on results across the group.
In announcing his squad, Petkovic reaffirmed his confidence in the selected group of players, stating: “I have called up 26 players who, for me, are the best at the moment.”
The squad list features several familiar names who have consistently contributed to the national team’s recent success. Captain Riyad Mahrez, along with Amine Gouiri and Ramy Bensebaïni, headline the roster, offering both experience and firepower as Algeria aim to confirm their place at the next World Cup.
However, the selection does include a notable omission. AC Milan midfielder Ismaël Bennacer has been left out of the squad, with the coaching staff deciding to allow the player to remain with his club. The decision appears to be aimed at managing his workload and ensuring long-term fitness, although his absence will undoubtedly be felt in midfield.
Petkovic’s team features a mix of seasoned internationals and emerging talents. The goalkeeping department includes Benbot, Guendouz, and Bouhalfaya, providing depth and options between the posts.
In defence, the coach has named Aït-Nouri, Hadjam, Touba, Bensebaïni, Tougai, Mandi, and Atal, while Guitoun also returns to strengthen the backline. The selection brings together a blend of domestic and European-based players, with the likes of Atal and Mandi bringing invaluable top-level experience.
The midfield is anchored by established figures such as Zerrouki, Bentaleb, and Boudaoui, alongside more attack-minded options like Aouar, Kebbal, and Maza. Their versatility is expected to give Petkovic multiple tactical options against both Botswana and Guinea.
In the attacking department, the Fennecs will count on the creativity and goal-scoring ability of Mahrez, Benrahma, and Belaïli. They are joined by promising names such as Hadj Moussa, Benzia, Chaibi, and Gouiri, with Baghdad Bounedjah likely to lead the line as the primary striker.
Algeria’s encounter with Botswana is seen as a must-win fixture, particularly given the team’s current form and superior squad depth. Botswana, however, will not be taken lightly, as they remain capable of causing problems for even the strongest opposition.
The following match against Guinea is expected to be more challenging, given Guinea’s disciplined style of play and their ambitions to qualify as well. A positive result in both fixtures could see Algeria officially book their place at the 2026 tournament, which will be co-hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico.
As the group stage nears its conclusion, Petkovic and his players know that every point will count. With the squad now confirmed and preparations underway, Algeria will look to continue their unbeaten run and secure qualification with games to spare.
Full Algeria squad for 2026 World Cup Qualifiers (Matchdays 7 & 8):
Goalkeepers: Benbot, Guendouz, Bouhalfaya
Defenders: Aït-Nouri, Hadjam, Touba, Bensebaïni, Tougai, Mandi, Atal, Guitoun
Midfielders: Zerrouki, Bentaleb, Boudaoui, Kebbal, Maza, Aouar
Forwards: Amoura, Benrahma, Belaïli, Mahrez, Hadj Moussa, Benzia, Chaibi, Gouiri, Bounedjah
