Injuries and squad withdrawals have opened the door for potential experimentation in Algeria’s attacking lineup as they prepare to face Sweden, with head coach Vladimir Petković weighing a range of creative options to compensate for key absences.
Mohamed Amine Amoura has been ruled out after sustaining an injury during the match against Rwanda, adding to a growing list of unavailabilities that have become an unwelcome pattern during each international window.
The striker, widely regarded as a regular starter in Petković’s plans, has now returned home for recovery following a demanding season.
Also missing is Youcef Belaïli, who has rejoined his club for their participation in the Club World Cup.
The dual absences pose a significant tactical challenge, prompting speculation about how the Algerian coach will approach the Sweden fixture.
Petković now finds himself at a strategic crossroads.
While several traditional solutions are on the table—such as repositioning Farès Chaïbi or Rayan Aït-Nouri to the left wing, or reintroducing Saïd Benrahma to the starting XI—there is also growing talk of more unconventional deployments.
Benrahma, who did not feature in the starting lineup against Rwanda, is seen as the most probable choice to fill the void.
His exclusion in that previous match may indicate that Petković was preserving him for a more critical role against stronger opposition.
However, other possibilities are emerging. Amine Gouiri, fresh off a strong spell with Marseille, is viewed as a versatile option.
Though typically deployed centrally at club level, he is capable of operating from the left and could link up with Baghdad Bounedjah.
Despite Bounedjah’s underwhelming showing in the Rwanda fixture, his experience may still keep him in contention to lead the line.
Alternatively, Petković may opt for a complete reshuffle.
Rising talent Amin Chiakha, recently introduced to international duty, is reportedly gaining favour with the coach.
The young Algerian-Danish striker could be a surprise inclusion in the starting XI, potentially flanked by Gouiri, who appears increasingly certain to feature.
There is also Houssem Aouar, another player left out of the Rwanda matchday squad, whose comfort operating from the left in a supporting striker role adds further depth to Petković’s options.
As Algeria prepare to take on Sweden, Petković is presented with a rare opportunity—forced by injury, but rich with potential—to explore new tactical formulas.
Whether he opts for experience, youth, or innovation, the match could offer a glimpse into the evolving identity of the national side under his leadership.
