Kilian Belazzoug and Abdellatif Ramdane handed Algeria opportunity amid goalkeeper uncertainty

Algeria coach Vladimir Petkovic has intensified his search for solutions in goal ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup by testing several options during the national team’s latest training camp in Sidi Moussa.

The goalkeeping position remains one of the main concerns for Algeria as injuries, inconsistent performances and dips in form continue to prevent the emergence of a clear first-choice option.

Five goalkeepers were involved on the opening day of the training camp, but particular attention has focused on the inclusion of Kilian Belazzoug and Abdellatif Ramdane, two players viewed as surprise selections by many observers.

Belazzoug’s presence represents an important step in the development of the young goalkeeper, who is still building experience at senior level.

Born in the Paris region to an Angolan father and an Algerian mother, the Stade Rennais goalkeeper is regarded as a long-term option for the national team.

The coaching staff are believed to value his modern goalkeeping profile and potential for further progression as Algeria continue their search for stability in the position.

Ramdane is also experiencing a significant moment in his career after spending much of his time at MC Alger behind Alexis Guendouz in the pecking order.

His inclusion in the national team setup is seen as an opportunity to prove he can become a reliable option within a hierarchy that remains far from settled.

Competition among the goalkeepers has intensified during the camp, with physical tests, technical evaluations and specialised sessions forming a major part of preparations.

Petkovic and his technical staff are reportedly determined to maintain strong competition for places, with no goalkeeper guaranteed a position ahead of the tournament.

The Algeria coach is believed to be considering the possibility of taking four goalkeepers to the World Cup in order to increase his tactical flexibility and depth.

Among the current candidates, Luca Zidane is viewed as holding a slight advantage because of his consistency and experience, although the competition for places remains fully open as preparations continue in Sidi Moussa.