Algerian Radio
The Algerian national team faces the Netherlands this Wednesday at 19:45 (Algiers time) in a friendly match, marking the final stage of their preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
"Les Verts" will clash with a formidable Dutch side at "De Kuip" Stadium in Rotterdam, just days before entering the World Cup arena against defending champions Argentine on June 17.
Coach Vladimir Petković is counting on this high-level encounter to help his players acclimate to a top-tier competitive atmosphere ahead of the tournament, which will be hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico from June 11 to July 19. It serves as a crucial benchmark to gauge the readiness of Riyad Mahrez and his teammates before they face Lionel Messi’s squad.
The coaching staff aims to evaluate the players' physical and technical conditions following a week of intensive training at the National Technical Center in Sidi Moussa. Analysts believe the Netherlands match will be a defining test, allowing Petković to finalize tactical details and determine the starting XI for the opening Group J fixture against Argentine.
Potential absences: Zidane and Boudaoui
"Les Verts" are likely to be without goalkeeper Luca Zidane, who is still not fully match-ready as he adapts to playing with a protective face mask following surgery. The difficulty in adjusting to physical contact with the mask may lead the coach to rest him, potentially giving Oussama Benbot the opportunity to start.
Midfielder Hicham Boudaoui is also expected to be absent as he continues to recover from a concussion sustained while playing for his club, OGC Nice.
