Algeria has named its squad for the FIFA World Cup set to take place across Canada, Mexico, and the United States this summer [1, 2]. The team is returning to the World Cup stage for the first time in 12 years [1, 2].
Midfielder Nabil Bentaleb, 31, was recalled to the squad after not featuring since last October. Coach Vladimir Petkovic described him as a player who "has all the qualities as a person for the group too" and added that Bentaleb "has shown he's in form these last few months" [1, 2].
Key attackers Houssem Aouar and Amine Gouiri also returned after missing the Africa Cup of Nations finals due to injuries [1, 2]. Their inclusion is seen as a boost to Algeria's attacking options.
In the goalkeeper position, veteran Oussama Benbot has come out of retirement to help address what the team expects to be a goalkeeping crisis. Benbot had retired shortly after the Africa Cup of Nations but rejoined the national team for the World Cup [1, 2]. This move follows the injury setback of first-choice keeper Luca Zidane, who suffered a broken jaw and chin while playing for Granada in April [1, 2].
Algeria is placed in Group J, facing defending champions Argentina, as well as Austria and Jordan [1, 2].
Ahead of the tournament, the team will play warm-up friendlies against the Netherlands in Rotterdam on June 7 and Bolivia in Kansas City on June 10 [1, 2]. These matches provide an opportunity to finalize the squad and prepare tactically for the World Cup.
Algeria’s last World Cup appearance came 12 years ago, marking a significant return for the team on football’s biggest stage [1, 2]. Coach Petkovic officially announced the squad including Bentaleb on May 28, shortly after goalkeeper Benbot helped USM Alger win the African Confederation Cup final that same day [1, 2].