Algeria's national team ("Les Fennecs" - Desert Foxes) is one of the most technical, tactically disciplined African teams.
Returning to the world stage for the first time since 2014, Algeria promises to be a center of attention at WC 2026. In 2014, they reached the Round of 16, giving Germany a tough fight.
Vladimir Petkovic's squad heads to the expanded 48-team tournament with confidence. Oxu.Az looks at Algeria's past, present, and 2026 expectations.
Petkovic took over in February 2024. He gained experience in Switzerland, Turkey, and Italy. He led Switzerland to the UEFA Nations League finals, WC 2018 Round of 16, and Euro 2020 quarterfinals.
Petkovic secured qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and then for WC 2026.
First World Cup
Algeria debuted in 1982 in Spain, beating West Germany in a shock result but failing to advance.
Last World Cup
In Brazil 2014, they reached the knockout stage for the first time. They beat South Korea 4:2 and drew Russia 1:1 to advance. They lost 1:2 to Germany in extra time.
Qualification
Algeria beat Somalia 3:0 to qualify for WC 2026. Mohamed Amoura was top scorer with 10 goals.
Match Schedule
June 17: Argentina - Algeria; June 23: Jordan - Algeria; June 28: Algeria - Austria.
Top Scorers
Three players scored two goals each: Salah Assad, Abdelmoumene Djebbari, Islam Slimani. Slimani has 18 goals in WC qualifiers.
Most Appearances
Rafik Halliche played all seven matches in 2010 and 2014, captaining the team.
Unforgettable Moments
Algeria was the first African team to beat a European team (West Germany) in a World Cup. In 1982, they became the first African team to win two matches in a single World Cup, yet still failed to advance.
Algeria could spring a surprise by taking points from Argentina.
