News Focus
- Luca Zidane receives his first-ever World Cup call-up for Algeria
- Riyad Mahrez, aged 35, included in the 26-man squad
- Nabil Bentaleb returns after seven months away from international football
- Algeria will compete in Group J against Argentina, Austria and Jordan
Algeria have named their squad for the upcoming World Cup. Coach Vladimir Petkovic has included Luca Zidane for the first time. The 28-year-old goalkeeper is the son of French legend Zinedine Zidane.
Zidane previously represented France at youth level. He played for the French under-20 team before switching to Algeria. His grandparents were born in the North African country. He was the first-choice goalkeeper at the Africa Cup of Nations earlier this year.
The Granada keeper suffered a serious injury in April. He broke his jaw and chin during a match for the Spanish club. However, he has recovered in time for the tournament.
His father Zinedine won the World Cup with France in 1998. He scored twice in the final against Brazil on home soil. He also played in the 2006 final against Italy.
Riyad Mahrez has also been selected. The 35-year-old forward currently plays for Al-Ahli in Saudi Arabia. He previously starred for Manchester City and Leicester City. He brings vast experience to the squad.
Nabil Bentaleb has earned a recall. The midfielder has not played for Algeria in seven months. He currently plays for Lille in France. Bentaleb previously played for Tottenham Hotspur. He represented Algeria at the 2014 World Cup. That was the country’s last appearance at the finals.
Petkovic praised the 31-year-old. “We know Bentaleb well,” he said. “He has all the qualities as a person for the group. He has shown he is in form these last few months.”
Houssem Aouar and Amine Gouiri are also back in the team. Both missed the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco due to injury. Aouar plays for Al-Ittihad. Gouiri plays for Marseille.
Algeria will face tough opponents in Group J. They will play holders Argentina. They will also meet Austria and Jordan.
The squad includes players from top European clubs. Rayan Ait-Nouri of Manchester City is included. Ramy Bensebaini of Borussia Dortmund is also selected. Several other players come from leagues in France and Saudi Arabia.
Algeria hope to make a strong impression at the tournament. The team aims to progress from the group stage.