Algeria national team head coach Vladimir Petkovic has unveiled his starting eleven for the highly anticipated FIFA World Cup 2026 last-32 encounter against Switzerland. The Desert Foxes have made key adjustments to their lineup as they aim to secure a place in the next round of the global tournament.
Zidane Returns in Goal
In a significant selection decision, goalkeeper Luca Zidane returns to the starting lineup to guard the net for Algeria. Zidane reclaims his spot after being left out of the previous fixture against Austria, where Oussama Benbot was preferred in goal. Benbot drops out of the starting eleven for this crucial knockout match.
Defensive and Midfield Adjustments
Petkovic has also shuffled his defensive options, welcoming Rayan Aït-Nouri back into the starting lineup. Aït-Nouri takes his place in the defence, replacing Jaouen Hadjam, who is left out of the starting side. The rest of the defensive line features Rafik Belghali, Aissa Mandi, and Ramy Bensebaini.
In the middle of the pitch, Ramiz Zerrouki has been drafted in to bolster the Algerian midfield. He joins Ibrahim Maza, Houssem Aouar, and Nabil Bentaleb in a solid midfield unit designed to combat the Swiss threat.
Mahrez Leads the Attack
Experienced winger Riyad Mahrez will captain the side from the start. He is joined in the attacking setup by Farès Chaïbi. Meanwhile, forward Amine Gouiri has been named among the substitutes, offering Petkovic a potent option off the bench as the match progresses.
Algeria Starting XI
- Goalkeeper: Luca Zidane
- Defenders: Rafik Belghali, Aissa Mandi, Ramy Bensebaini, Rayan Aït-Nouri
- Midfielders: Ramiz Zerrouki, Ibrahim Maza, Houssem Aouar, Nabil Bentaleb
- Forwards: Riyad Mahrez (c), Farès Chaïbi