Major Goalkeeping shift as Algeria call up Melvin Mastil

Algeria have moved to reshape their goalkeeping hierarchy after including Melvin Mastil in their preliminary squad for March, casting fresh doubt over Luca Zidane’s standing in the national team.

The announcement, made on Friday 27 February 2026, signals a new direction for the Fennecs as head coach Vladimir Petkovic looks to increase competition ahead of the World Cup.

Mastil’s inclusion comes at a pivotal moment.

With Oussama Benbot having retired from international duty and uncertainty lingering around Anthony Mandrea, Petkovic is seeking stability and renewed rivalry for the number one shirt.

The Swiss-based goalkeeper has impressed in the second division this season, recording several clean sheets and earning recognition for his consistency.

His call-up is more than symbolic.

It reflects a deliberate attempt by the coaching staff to reassess options and ensure that the three goalkeepers selected for the upcoming tournament in North America are in peak form.

Speaking previously about his connection to Algeria, Mastil said: “As I said, it’s always been one of my goals. I grew up supporting the Algerian national team. When I saw how far they went at the 2014 World Cup, it made me dream, just like their success at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations. I didn’t miss a single match of the AFCON in Morocco; right after training, I’d meet up with Algerian friends to watch the national team play. There are quite a few reasons why I support Algeria. (…) I’m connected to this country through my grandfather, who grew up in a neighborhood in Algiers. I’ve always experienced the national team through the stories and stories I hear. And also through my mother, who is Algerian. It’s all of these things that have always made Algeria hold a special place in my heart. It’s a personal goal that I’ve rarely talked about. It’s a driving force that motivates me. And if I am called up in March or in the coming years, it would be a huge source of pride to represent Algeria..”

Competition for places is intensifying.

Alongside Mastil, Abdellah El Aïdani and Alexis Guendouz are also under consideration, further tightening the race.

For Luca Zidane, the message is clear: established reputations alone will not guarantee selection.

Mastil’s immediate objective will be to turn this preliminary inclusion into a confirmed place for the friendlies against Guatemala and Uruguay at the end of March.

For Algeria, the broader aim is to ensure no eligible talent is overlooked as preparations accelerate.