2026 World Cup qualifiers: Algeria decimated by a wave of injuries! | OneFootball

2026 World Cup qualifiers: Algeria struck by a series of withdrawals!

2026 World Cup qualifiers: Algeria decimated by a wave of injuries!

As a decisive training camp approaches, the Algerian national team is facing a true catastrophe. Several key players are set to miss the October camp, a crucial stage in the race for a spot at the 2026 World Cup. Among the confirmed or highly likely absentees are some heavyweights: Youcef Atal, Rayan Aït-Nouri, Mohamed Farsi, Hicham Boudaoui, Houssem Aouar, and Abdelhak Kadri. These are all either starters or essential backups in Vladimir Petkovic's system, forcing the coach to completely rethink his plans just days before the official squad announcement.

Petkovic facing an unprecedented challenge

This blow comes at a time when Algeria needs just three points from two matches to mathematically secure qualification for the 2026 World Cup. Les Fennecs will first take on Somalia in Oran, before facing Uganda at the Hocine Ait Ahmed Stadium in Tizi-Ouzou. For Petkovic, the challenge now goes far beyond tactical preparation—it's about assembling a competitive squad despite the avalanche of withdrawals. The depth of the bench will be severely tested, and some younger or previously overlooked players may be called upon to seize their chance. In a context of immense pressure, this camp is shaping up to be a major test for the head coach and his decisions, which could shape the future of Algeria's World Cup journey.