Algeria’s World Cup friendly against Netherlands moved to Rotterdam

Algeria’s planned June friendly against the Netherlands has been moved to a new venue, in a late change to preparations for the 2026 World Cup.

The match, which forms part of the national team’s build-up to next summer’s tournament, will now be staged at De Kuip in Rotterdam rather than the Johan Cruijff ArenA in Amsterdam.

The fixture is set to take place on 3 June and is expected to be confirmed officially by the Algerian Football Federation in the coming days.

The game will offer head coach Vladimir Petkovic an opportunity to measure his squad against one of Europe’s leading sides just days before Algeria begin their World Cup campaign.

Facing the Netherlands is viewed internally as a significant test of progress as preparations intensify.

According to reports by Win Win, the venue switch does not affect the date of the encounter.

The move to De Kuip carries added significance for Anis Hadj Moussa, who plays his club football at the stadium with Feyenoord. A home appearance in national colours would represent a special occasion for the right winger.

The fixture will also mark a historic first meeting between Algeria and the Netherlands at senior level.

The two nations have never previously faced each other, either in a friendly or in competitive competition, adding further intrigue to the contest.

The June match forms part of a wider and demanding preparation schedule. Following the March training camp, details of which were outlined by the Algerian Football Federation (FAF), the squad is due to gather again in Italy.

During that camp, Algeria are set to play friendly matches against Guatemala and Uruguay as part of their structured build-up.

In addition to the Netherlands clash, Algeria are expected to arrange another friendly in June, with the identity of the opponent yet to be finalised.

Discussions have included the possibility of facing Italy, should they secure qualification for the World Cup, in what would serve as a final high-level test before the tournament begins.

With the countdown to the 2026 World Cup continuing, Algeria’s preparations are entering a decisive phase, with top-level opposition lined up to sharpen the squad ahead of the global stage.