Algeria’s intense battle for World Cup places leaves AFCON players at risk

Algeria are approaching a decisive moment as coach Vladimir Petkovic prepares to name the squad for the country’s fifth appearance at the World Cup, with several players from the Africa Cup of Nations now facing uncertainty over their places.

With FIFA limiting national team squads to 26 players, two fewer than the 28 selected for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, competition for a place among the Fennecs has intensified.

Injuries, fitness concerns and increasing competition across several positions have left a number of players unsure whether they will be included in Algeria’s final squad for the tournament in the United States.

Among those already ruled out are two players who featured during Algeria’s recent AFCON campaign in Morocco.

Right-back Youcef Atal will miss the tournament after suffering a torn Achilles tendon, while goalkeeper Anthony Mandréa is also unavailable after dislocating his shoulder.

Their absences guarantee at least two changes to the squad, but the uncertainty surrounding other positions suggests further adjustments are likely.

In defence, several players remain under close scrutiny as Petkovic evaluates both physical condition and recent playing time.

While many members of the previous AFCON squad have recovered from injuries, the Algeria coach has made it clear that match fitness will be a decisive factor in his selection process.

“Some are not on the list because they lack match fitness. The Africa Cup of Nations has taken its toll, and many need to regain their form to be considered for a place on the next trip to the 2026 World Cup squad ,” the coach explained after announcing his squad for the March training camp.

That statement has increased speculation around several defenders whose recent lack of playing time could count against them.

Samir Chergui appears among the most vulnerable. The Paris FC defender has featured only once in 2026, making a late substitute appearance after returning from injury.

His limited involvement has raised doubts over whether he will retain his place, unless Petkovic decides to offer him another opportunity.

Mohamed Amine Tougai is another player facing uncertainty after being left out of the March squad.

His absence has fuelled questions about his standing within the national team setup as the competition for defensive places continues to intensify.

Mehdi Dorval also appears to be in a difficult position.

The SSC Bari full-back faces strong competition from Rafik Belghali, Rayan Aït-Nouri and Jaouen Hadjam, all of whom seem to hold stronger claims at this stage.

In midfield, Algeria face equally difficult decisions.

Ismaël Bennacer’s condition remains one of the key issues as he continues his return from injury.

Although available again, questions remain over whether he has fully regained the physical sharpness that has long made him a central figure in Algeria’s midfield.

Adem Zorgane is another player whose situation remains uncertain despite strong performances at club level with Union Saint-Gilloise.

His omission from the March training camp has increased doubts over his World Cup prospects.

At the same time, Yacine Titraoui appears to have strengthened his position and could be among the players benefiting from the current reshuffling.

Adil Aouchiche has also emerged as a serious contender following an improved run of form with Schalke 04.

There is also the possibility of a return for Nabil Bentaleb, adding further competition to an already crowded midfield.

In attack, several players are also fighting to secure one of the remaining places.

Ilan Kebbal’s recent dip in form has placed his position under pressure.

Farès Ghedjemis and Bachir Belloumi are increasingly viewed as strong alternatives, potentially threatening Kebbal’s hopes of inclusion.

Uncertainty also surrounds Baghdad Bounedjah, whose place has become less certain amid growing competition.

Monsef Bakrar, who struggled to make an impact during the Africa Cup of Nations, and Redouane Berkane, whose influence has diminished since the tournament, also appear vulnerable.

With the deadline for final squad submission approaching on 1 June, Petkovic faces several difficult decisions.

For some players, recent form and fitness could determine whether they remain part of Algeria’s World Cup plans.

For others, the dream of representing the Fennecs on football’s biggest stage may depend on one final decision from the national team coach.