Zidane: Algeria’s World Cup exit will stay with me despite Messi test

Luka Zidane says Algeria’s elimination by Switzerland was a source of regret, but described his experience at the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico as the best opportunity a footballer can have.

The 28-year-old Leganes goalkeeper was part of Algeria’s campaign at the tournament and reflected on his experience in an interview with Spanish radio station Cadena SER.

“It was a wonderful experience. It is the best thing that can happen to any footballer,” said Zidane.

Algeria’s tournament ended in the round of 32 after they were beaten 2-0 by Switzerland at BC Place in Vancouver, Canada.

Zidane admitted the result fell short of the team’s ambitions and said the squad had hoped to progress further in the competition.

“We hoped to reach the advanced stages, but Switzerland knocked us out and things did not go as we had planned. I will keep this memory from the World Cup,” he said.

The defeat brought an early end to Algeria’s involvement in the 2026 finals, despite the significance of the occasion for Zidane, who was taking part in the World Cup with the country’s national team.

One of the goalkeeper’s most notable memories came from Algeria’s meeting with Argentina, led by Lionel Messi. Zidane said the match presented a particularly difficult challenge because of the quality and reputation of the Argentina captain.

“The match against Argentina led by Lionel Messi… it was difficult. When you play against one of the best players in history, it is extremely difficult,” he said.

The World Cup experience now forms part of the next stage of Zidane’s career. The goalkeeper is focusing on the forthcoming season in Spain after completing his involvement at the highest level of international football.

His performances in the tournament were not especially prominent, but the experience is expected to add to his career as he seeks to establish himself more firmly at club level.

Zidane will also hope to continue as a regular option for Algeria in future competitions and to strengthen his position as the player responsible for protecting the Desert Warriors’ goal.

For now, his World Cup campaign contains both disappointment and a lasting memory: the frustration of being eliminated by Switzerland, alongside the opportunity to face a side featuring Messi on football’s biggest international stage.