Riyad Mahrez will captain Algeria against Jordan after returning to the starting line-up for their FIFA World Cup 2026 fixture. Coach Vladimir Petkovic has made changes to the side that faced Argentina, with the experienced winger replacing Anis Hadj Moussa, who drops to the bench.
Goalkeeper Luca Zidane, son of French World Cup winner Zinedine Zidane, starts between the posts for the Desert Foxes. The shot-stopper earns his opportunity as Petkovic reshuffles his options for the Tuesday encounter.
Algeria Starting XI
The Algerian defence comprises Rafik Belghali, Aissa Mandi, Ramy Bensebaini and Rayan Aït-Nouri. In midfield, Hicham Boudaoui and Ibrahim Maza are tasked with controlling the tempo from the outset, while Ramiz Zerrouki adds balance and additional protection to the back four. Nabil Bentaleb is listed among the substitutes.
Up front, Mahrez leads the line alongside Farès Chaïbi and Amine Gouiri. The trio will shoulder the attacking burden, with Mahrez providing creative spark and Chaïbi and Gouiri offering movement in the wide areas.
Tactical Adjustments
The alterations reflect Petkovic’s rotation strategy following the opening match against Argentina. Hadj Moussa’s relegation to the bench marks a tactical shift, while Zidane’s inclusion offers a new dynamic between the sticks.
Zidane’s selection marks a notable chapter in Algeria’s goalkeeping department, with the custodian stepping up for a crucial World Cup assignment. The defensive unit, marshalled by veteran Aissa Mandi alongside Ramy Bensebaini, will need to remain organised against Jordan’s attacking threats.
The result will prove decisive for Algeria’s progression hopes in the expanded 48-team tournament. Having opened their campaign against Argentina, the north African outfit now target a positive result against Asian opponents to bolster their standing ahead of the final group fixture.
The match kicks off on Tuesday.