Luca Zidane set for Algeria World Cup role as goalkeeper debate persists

The question of who will occupy Algeria’s goalkeeping positions at the 2026 World Cup remains unresolved as coach Vladimir Petkovic prepares to finalise his squad at the Sidi Moussa Technical Centre ahead of the tournament.

As players report for the start of the training camp, the structure of the squad is becoming clearer, but uncertainty continues to surround one of the most closely watched positions in the team.

According to journalist Samir Kaabouche, Petkovic has now identified his three goalkeepers for the tournament, with Luca Zidane, Oussama Benbot and Melvin Mastil expected to be included in the squad travelling to the United States.

The situation highlights a long-standing issue for Algeria, which has struggled to establish a settled number one since the gradual decline of the Raïs M’Bolhi era.

In the years since, the position has remained open, with several goalkeepers given opportunities but none fully cementing their place as first choice.

In recent international windows, Petkovic has rotated his options in search of consistency. Anthony Mandrea had appeared to take a leading role before eventually losing his place and later stepping away from contention, while Alexis Guendouz is also expected to miss out on selection for the World Cup squad.

Benbot’s form in particular has strengthened his case in recent months, with his performances earning him a recall to the national setup after previously being out of the picture.

He is now viewed as a strong candidate to serve as a backup option, and could potentially play a larger role depending on Zidane’s fitness and availability.

Mastil’s inclusion is seen more as an investment for the future, reflecting a hierarchy that remains in flux rather than fully settled.

With preparations now underway, the goalkeeper debate remains one of the final key decisions facing Petkovic as Algeria move closer to confirming their final World Cup squad.