Algeria team profile - FIFA World Cup 2026
In the build-up to FIFA World Cup 2026 in USA, Canada and Mexico, we shine a spotlight on Algeria.
FIFA World Ranking: 28
Confederation: CAF
Who is Algeria’s head coach for FIFA World Cup 2026?
Algeria’s head coach for FIFA World Cup 2026 is Vladimir Petkovic. He has been in charge of the Algerian national team since February 2024.
Who is Algeria’s captain for FIFA World Cup 2026?
Algeria’s captain for FIFA World Cup 2026 is Riyad Mahrez. Capped over 100 times by his country, Mahrez has led the Fennecs since 2021.
How many times have Algeria participated in a FIFA World Cup before 2026?
Four – 1982, 1986, 2010, 2014
What is Algeria’s best performance at a FIFA World Cup?
Round of 16 – 2024
How did Algeria qualify for FIFA World Cup 2026?
Algeria qualified for FIFA World Cup 2026 after finishing top of their group in the first round of CAF qualification. Teams were drawn into nine groups of six with Algeria placed in Group G alongside the likes of Uganda, Mozambique and Guinea.
After ten group games, Algeria finished on 25 points with eight wins, a draw and only one defeat, seven points above their nearest rivals. Their only loss came against Guinea in the third round of group fixtures, with Algeria going on a run of seven matches unbeaten thereafter.
Confirmation of their FIFA World Cup qualification came on October 9, 2025 after a 0-3 win over Somalia.
Who are Algeria’s star players?
A Champions League winner with Man City and four-time Premier League champion, winger Riyad Mahrez (Al-Ahli) is the star man for Algeria. The skilful winger was named both CAF and BBC African footballer of the year in 2016 and despite being 35-years-old now, Mahrez remains Algeria’s leader and biggest attacking threat with more than 35 goals for his country.
Also a player to watch out for is attacker Ibrahim Maza (Bayer Leverkusen), scorer of two goals at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. The 20-year-old wonderkid boasts rapid pace and exciting trickery with a notable eye for goal. Another Bundesliga star who could shine for Algeria at FIFA World Cup 2026 is Mohamed Amoura (Wolfsburg), with over 15 international goals to his name.
Who is in Algeria’s group at FIFA World Cup 2026?
Algeria are in Group J, which consists of the following teams
Argentina
Algeria
Austria
Jordan
Algeria’s Group J fixtures are as follows:
Argentina vs Algeria: Tuesday June 16, 2026 – 9:00pm ET, 2:00am UK (Wednesday)
Jordan vs Algeria: Monday June 22, 2026 – 11:00pm ET, 4:00am UK (Tuesday)
Algeria vs Austria: Saturday June 27, 2026 – 10:00pm ET, 3:00am UK (Sunday)
All kick-off dates are based on a local kick-off time
Where is Algeria’s base camp at FIFA World Cup 2026?
University of Kansas – Kansas City, Missouri
Expert prediction for Algeria’s chances at FIFA World Cup 2026
Algeria have been placed into a difficult group, which includes reigning champions Argentina, who they face first in Kansas City. This immediately puts Algeria at a disadvantage with no chance of Lionel Scaloni resting players and a heavy defeat would immediately put Algeria on the back foot.
They also meet a dangerous and underrated Austria team who could easily inflict another loss upon the Algerians. Their best chance of qualification into the knockout stage will likely be as one of the best third-placed finishers, but with heavy competition for those spots, it would be no surprise to see Vladimir Petkovic’s men fall short.
What round will Algeria reach at FIFA World Cup 2026? Group Stage
