Algeria to test new-look squad against Guatemala in friendly

Algeria national football team will return to action against Guatemala national football team in a friendly in Genoa, as head coach Vladimir Petkovic prepares to test a reshaped squad following their Africa Cup of Nations exit.

The match marks Algeria’s first appearance since their quarter-final elimination at the continental tournament, with Petkovic expected to use the fixture to assess new options and adjust his team ahead of future challenges.

With a meeting against Uruguay national football team scheduled just three days later, the encounter with Guatemala provides an opportunity for experimentation.

The opponent, relatively new on the international stage, offers what appears to be a suitable setting for introducing fresh faces and testing tactical variations.

Among those expected to feature are several players who could be making their international debuts. Goalkeepers Melvin Mastil and Kilian Belazzoug, defender Achraf Abada, midfielder Adil Aouchiche, and forwards Ahmed Benbouali and Fares Ghedjemis are all set to be closely observed as they are introduced to the demands of international football.

Their inclusion reflects a broader effort by Petkovic to reassess his squad, less than three months before the 2026 World Cup.

The coach has been focused on addressing shortcomings identified during the tournament in Morocco, where Algeria’s campaign ended earlier than anticipated.

Preparations have been taking place in Italy, with the squad training at Juventus Training Center Vinovo after arriving earlier in the week.

Sessions have centred on technical and tactical work, although one midfielder from OGC Nice will miss the Guatemala match due to illness.

Petkovic is also expected to rely largely on the core group that secured victory over Congo national football team in the round of 16 at the Africa Cup of Nations, while making adjustments where necessary.

The line-up selected for the Guatemala match may offer insight into the evolving goalkeeping hierarchy, with Luca Zidane emerging as a strong contender for the number one position.

However, it is the upcoming clash with Uruguay that is likely to provide a clearer indication of Petkovic’s long-term thinking, as Algeria continue to refine their approach following their Afcon campaign.