World Cup 2026: Luca Zidane excited for Argentina test in Algeria opener

Algeria goalkeeper Luca Zidane says he is relishing the opportunity to face world champions Argentina as the Desert Foxes prepare to begin their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign in Kansas City.

The 28-year-old Granada shot-stopper, son of French football legend Zinedine Zidane, is expected to start between the posts when Algeria take on Lionel Messi and the defending champions in a highly anticipated Group J clash. The match marks Algeria’s return to the World Cup for the first time since 2014, when they famously pushed eventual champions Germany to extra time in the Round of 16.

For Luca Zidane, the occasion will be particularly special as he prepares to make his World Cup debut after switching his international allegiance from France to Algeria in 2025. The goalkeeper qualified to represent the North African nation through his paternal grandparents and has quickly established himself as Algeria’s first-choice keeper.

Speaking ahead of the match, Zidane expressed his excitement about testing himself against the best players in the world.

“We play football to compete against the best. Tomorrow, we’ll be playing against the world’s elite. I’m happy to be here, to be playing in this World Cup, and to represent my country. It will be a great match.”

The goalkeeper’s presence at the tournament is a remarkable story in itself. In late April, Zidane suffered a serious double fracture of his chin and jaw that placed his World Cup participation in doubt. However, after weeks of recovery and rehabilitation, he returned to action wearing a protective mask and has been declared fully fit for the tournament.

“We’re ready physically and mentally, that’s the most important thing. We’re really looking forward to this match. My injury was tough, but it’s behind me now.

“We know that keeping a clean sheet is already a big step in a match. We’ll try to be solid defensively and, with our attacking qualities, we can cause them problems.”

Algeria enter the tournament as underdogs against an Argentina side seeking to become the first nation since Brazil in 1962 to successfully defend the World Cup trophy. Lionel Scaloni’s men remain among the favourites to lift the title again, with Messi leading a squad packed with experience and quality.

However, Algeria believe they have the tools to spring a surprise. Coach Vladimir Petkovic has assembled a talented squad featuring Riyad Mahrez, Mohamed Amoura, Anis Hadj Moussa and Ibrahim Maza, while recent victories over the Netherlands and Bolivia have boosted confidence ahead of the tournament.

Adding another layer to the occasion, Zinedine Zidane is expected to be in the stands to support his son, choosing Algeria’s clash with Argentina over France’s opening match against Senegal. For Luca Zidane, it will be another opportunity to forge his own legacy on football’s biggest stage.