2026 World Cup: The group of death looming for Algeria | OneFootball

Algérie

As we await the draw for the 2026 World Cup, Algeria could find itself in a nightmare group if the draw follows the logic of the seeded pots.

With 32 out of 48 qualifiers already confirmed for the 2026 World Cup, the composition of the pots leaves little room for chance and could set up a catastrophic scenario for the Fennecs: a clash with Argentina and Croatia, two teams from pots 1 and 2, already confirmed. To top it off, Saudi Arabia—qualified from pot 4—could also join the group.

It's important to note that the World Cup draw is organized into four pots. Pot 1 will bring together the heavyweights and host nations: Mexico, United States, Canada, Spain, Argentina, France, England, Brazil, Portugal, Netherlands, and Belgium. Pot 2 contains strong teams like Morocco, Japan, Senegal, or Croatia, as well as European sides still to be confirmed such as Italy or Switzerland.

Algeria finds itself in pot 3, alongside nations like Ecuador, Australia, Tunisia, and Ivory Coast. Finally, pot 4 brings together the lower-ranked teams or those coming from intercontinental playoffs, among which Saudi Arabia could end up in the same group as Algeria. If this draw becomes reality, the Fennecs will have to face the Messi-led world champion Argentinians, experienced Croatians, and a very organized Saudi team—even before dreaming of the round of 32.