Vladimir Petkovic names expanded preliminary squad ahead of 2026 World Cup

Algeria head coach Vladimir Petkovic has revealed an expanded preliminary squad for the 2026 World Cup just hours before the deadline for submitting provisional lists, with the selection reflecting continuity and limited changes from previous call-ups.

The initial group includes a large pool of players across all positions, as Petkovic begins the process of narrowing down his final squad for the tournament in the United States.

In the goalkeeping department, the coach has opted for an extensive list without recalling previously established figures, selecting Zidane, Guendouz, Bouhalfaya, Ramdane, Mastil, Merbah, Benbot, Chaal, Yessli and Belazzoug. The group features a strong presence of domestic league-based players, alongside a smaller number developed abroad.

In defence, Petkovic has largely maintained his established core, with players including Benkara, Touba, Redouani, Guitoun, Khacef, Nair, Tougaï, Mandi, Abada, Belaïd, Chergui, Dorval, Aït Nouri, Belghali, Hadjam and Halaimia all named in the preliminary squad.

The midfield group reflects a blend of experience and technical quality, with selections including Bentaleb, Bennacer, Lekhal, Boudaoui, Titraoui, Abdelli, Zorgane, Aouar, Chaïbi, Aouchiche, Maza, Zerrouki and Kendouci. The coach’s choices suggest a strong emphasis on balance and depth in the middle of the pitch.

In attack, competition for places is expected to be particularly intense. Riyad Mahrez is included as a leading figure in a forward group that also features Bouanani, Boulbina, Amoura, Benrahma, Bakrar, Berkane, Benbouali, Bounedjah, Chiakha, Gouiri, Hadj Moussa, Belloumi, Ghedjemis, Kebbal and Yacine Brahimi.

The final squad of 26 players is due to be confirmed on June 1, with Petkovic expected to make significant cuts following the training camp period.

The preparatory camp will run from May 25 to May 31 at the National Technical Centre in Sidi-Moussa, where players will be assessed before final decisions are made.

Teams are permitted to submit a squad of up to 26 players for the tournament, with an additional rule allowing a fourth reserve goalkeeper to be registered in case of serious injury to one of the three selected goalkeepers.

Petkovic now faces the challenge of refining his large preliminary group into a final tournament squad as Algeria prepare for the 2026 World Cup.