Algeria has found its first opponent for November? | OneFootball

A first opponent in sight for Algeria in November?

Algeria has found its first opponent for November?

According to information reported by the African outlet Afrik-Foot, the Algerian Football Federation (FAF) is currently in talks with its Saudi counterpart to organize a friendly match between Algeria and Saudi Arabia in November. This potential clash is already generating buzz, as the Saudi side is managed by Hervé Renard, who was once tipped to become the new head coach of the Fennecs after Djamel Belmadi was dismissed following the disastrous 2023 AFCON campaign. For Vladimir Petkovic, who is still searching for solid benchmarks ahead of major tournaments, this fixture would be an ideal opportunity to assess his squad’s mindset and competitiveness against a top-tier international opponent.

2026 World Cup qualification remains the top priority

However, before focusing on this high-profile match-up, Algeria must first secure its ticket to the 2026 World Cup. In October, the Fennecs face two decisive fixtures: against Somalia in Oran, and then against Uganda at the Hocine Aït Ahmed Stadium in Tizi Ouzou. Already sitting in a strong position in their group, just one more victory will be enough for Ismaël Bennacer and his teammates to officially book their place at the World Cup, regardless of other results.

This crucial double-header will be closely watched—not only for sealing Algeria’s World Cup fate, but also for testing Vladimir Petkovic’s ability to keep the squad unified and effective amid criticism over some recent decisions. Once this hurdle is cleared, the potential November showdown against Hervé Renard would serve as a real-world test—both symbolic and strategic—in building an ambitious Algerian side for 2026.