Algeria squad selection sparks controversy ahead of World Cup qualifiers

Algeria’s head coach Vladimir Petkovic has come under scrutiny following his squad selection for the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Botswana and Mozambique.

The 26-man squad, announced on Friday evening, includes several notable returns but has also raised concerns over omissions and unexpected call-ups.

Algeria will face Botswana in Francistown on March 21 in challenging conditions during Ramadan before hosting Mozambique in Tizi Ouzou on March 25 in a crucial Group G encounter.

Key Inclusions and Omissions

The confirmed selections of Yassine Benzia (Qarabag) and Youcef Atal (Al-Sadd), as previously announced by their clubs, were widely expected.

However, Baghdad Bounedjah (Al-Shamal SC), Houssem Aouar (Al-Ittihad), and Mohamed Tougaï (Espérance de Tunis) miss out due to injury concerns.

Youcef Belaïli (Espérance Tunis) makes his long-awaited return after last featuring in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations. Similarly, Marseille’s Ismaël Bennacer, who was sidelined with muscle issues for the past two international windows, is back in the squad.

Benrahma’s Call-Up Raises Questions

The inclusion of Saïd Benrahma has drawn particular criticism. The winger, currently on loan at NEOM SC from Lyon, has struggled to justify his place in the national team.

His recent move to Saudi Arabia’s second division is widely viewed as a downgrade in his career, sparking debate over his continued selection, especially given his inconsistent performances for Algeria in recent years.

Boulbina’s Absence Sparks Frustration

Adil Boulbina, the top scorer in the Algerian league with 15 goals, has been left out despite his recent impressive form, including a brace against CS Constantine.

His exclusion has frustrated fans, with Paradou coach Billel Dziri revealing that Boulbina was on Petkovic’s extended list but ultimately deemed not ready for international duty.

Concerns Over Goalkeeping and Defensive Balance

The continued inclusion of Alexandre Oukidja has also raised eyebrows. The veteran goalkeeper has not played a single minute for FC Metz in 2025, yet he remains in the squad at the expense of USM Alger’s Oussama Benbot, who has now been overlooked for the second consecutive selection.

Additionally, the recall of Farès Chaïbi has been met with skepticism. The Frankfurt midfielder has seen a dip in form, and his previous omissions were reportedly due to tactical reasons.

His return, despite struggling for club minutes, appears inconsistent with Petkovic’s past selection logic.

Another point of contention is the presence of five left-footed defenders in the squad, a tactical imbalance that has not gone unnoticed.

Pressure on Petkovic to Deliver

With Algeria tied on points with Mozambique at the top of Group G, Petkovic’s squad decisions will come under intense scrutiny.

The head coach will need to justify his selections on the pitch as Algeria looks to secure vital points in their quest for World Cup qualification.