Algerian Radio
The Algerian national team has been eliminated from the 2026 FIFA World Cup following a 2-0 defeat against Switzerland in the Round of 32.
Despite an honorable performance by Les Verts during the match and throughout their tournament journey, it was not enough to sustain the adventure against a highly organized Swiss side that capitalized on its opportunities. The defeat also prolonged Algeria's "European jinx"; the national team has not secured a victory in its last nine World Cup matches against European opposition (4 draws, 5 defeats) since the historic 2-1 win over Allemagne in 1982.
The "Desert Warriors" started the match with high intensity, dominating the first ten minutes in search of an early lead. However, they failed to convert their possession, and were caught off guard in the 10th minute. Breel Embolo took advantage of a decisive pass from Johan Manzambi, striking the ball with his left foot from close range to put Switzerland ahead.
Algeria attempted a swift response, with Houssem Aouar missing two chances in the 14th and 18th minutes following passes from Riyad Mahrez, but the Swiss defense remained resolute. While Les Verts maintained possession and offensive pressure, they struggled to create clear-cut scoring opportunities. Meanwhile, the Swiss side threatened through attacks led by Granit Xhaka and Manuel Akanji, though the vigilance of the Algerian defense kept the score at 1-0 at halftime.
At the start of the second half, specifically in the 46th minute, Switzerland exploited a defensive lapse by Ramy Bensebaïni. A cross found Dan Ndoye, who slotted the ball into the bottom right corner past Luka Zidane, doubling his team's lead.
In an effort to narrow the gap, national selector Vladimir Petković made several tactical changes, introducing Jaouen Hadjam, Amine Gouiri, Hicham Boudaoui, Anis Hadj Moussa, and Adel Boulbina, the latter replacing the injured Rafik Belghali. However, these substitutions failed to alter the scoreline.
Switzerland nearly added a third goal on multiple occasions. Rafik Belghali made a brilliant clearance in the 75th minute, and goalkeeper Luka Zidane pulled off a stellar save in the 81st minute, keeping the final score at 2-0 until the whistle.
