Algeria focused on securing World Cup return as they prepare to face Somalia

Algeria’s national team has entered the final stretch of preparations for their decisive 2026 World Cup qualifier against Somalia, set for Thursday in Oran.

The atmosphere at the National Technical Centre (CTN) in Sidi-Moussa has been calm yet purposeful since the squad gathered earlier this week.

Determined to seal qualification for the tournament to be hosted across Canada, Mexico, and the United States, the Greens have been working with focus and optimism under head coach Vladimir Petkovic.

Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Ibrahim Maza was among the first to report for duty, arriving in Algiers from Germany alongside his father.

The young talent, who had previously been reprimanded for tardiness during the September international window, appeared intent on setting the right tone this time.

He joined Ramy Bensebaïni of Borussia Dortmund for an early session, both eager to make an impression as the camp got underway.

Monday marked the day of full arrivals, with players streaming in from across Europe.

The scene at Algiers International Airport was lively, with fans seizing the opportunity for photos — particularly with captain Riyad Mahrez, whose presence continues to command admiration.

A minor adjustment was made to the squad following the withdrawal of Mohamed Amine Tougaï, who picked up an injury with Espérance de Tunis.

His place was promptly filled by JS Kabylie defender Zinedine Belaïd, ensuring that Petkovic’s group was complete ahead of the opening training session.

The coach addressed his players briefly, outlining the objectives of this crucial international break — objectives that, as many in the squad understand, are self-evident.

For Aïssa Mandi and his teammates, this fixture represents far more than a qualifier.

The memory of Algeria’s heartbreaking elimination from the 2022 World Cup still lingers — a night of despair on 29 March 2022 that ended their journey under Djamel Belmadi and left lasting scars.

That trauma has only strengthened the team’s resolve to return to the global stage.

After completing their training sessions in Algiers, the team will travel to Oran and spend the night before the match at the Cercle Régional Militaire de Canastel, a facility offering both comfort and seclusion.

Veterans of Algeria’s memorable 2014 World Cup run — Mandi, Nabil Bentaleb, and Mahrez — will use the occasion to remind their younger teammates of the responsibility that comes with wearing the national shirt.

For those three, this campaign may mark a final opportunity to grace the World Cup stage.

Mahrez, who featured briefly during the 2014 tournament before being left out of the starting lineup, views the current qualifiers as a chance for redemption.

As the Greens train with intensity and unity, their goal is clear: to secure Algeria’s fifth World Cup appearance, following their participations in 1982, 1986, 2010, and 2014. With confidence high and focus unwavering, the road to the Americas awaits — and the players know there can be no misstep this time.