Algeria

Algeria will make their fifth FIFA World Cup appearance in 2026, returning to the tournament after missing out on Qatar 2022 in heartbreaking fashion — eliminated by Cameroon on away goals in a dramatic play-off that remains a painful memory for Algerian football. The Desert Foxes' greatest World Cup moment came in 2014 in Brazil, where they reached the Round of 16 for the first time and pushed eventual champions Germany to extra time in a memorable encounter. Their 1982 campaign is also etched in World Cup history, though for controversial reasons — Algeria defeated West Germany in the group stage but were eliminated after the infamous "Disgrace of Gijón" saw West Germany and Austria play out a mutually beneficial result. Algeria's 2019 Africa Cup of Nations triumph on Egyptian soil, led by coach Djamel Belmadi, announced a golden generation to the world. The Riyad Mahrez era has elevated expectations for a program that now views World Cup knockout-stage qualification as not just a dream but a realistic target.

Riyad Mahrez, now at Al-Ahli in Saudi Arabia after his decorated Manchester City career, remains Algeria's captain and creative genius. The left-footed wizard's ability to cut inside from the right, deliver inch-perfect crosses, and score spectacular goals makes him the focal point of everything Algeria does in attack. Ismaël Bennacer of AC Milan provides midfield class and composure — the Champions League-proven playmaker controls tempo with his passing range and defensive work rate, making him indispensable to Algeria's structure. Ramy Bensebaini of Borussia Dortmund offers an attacking threat from left-back, contributing goals and assists while providing defensive solidity. Amine Gouiri of Rennes has emerged as an exciting forward option, capable of playing across the front line with technical flair and intelligent movement. Islam Slimani, now in his mid-thirties, remains Algeria's all-time leading scorer and offers experience and aerial threat from the bench. This squad blends Premier League and Champions League pedigree with hungry domestic talents.

Algeria's return to the World Cup after the Cameroon heartbreak carries emotional significance, but this squad has the talent to do more than just participate. The Desert Foxes possess genuine match-winners in Mahrez and Bennacer, and their 2019 AFCON triumph demonstrated their capacity to perform under tournament pressure. The key question is whether the veteran core — particularly the 35-year-old Mahrez — can replicate their best form against world-class opposition. Algeria's physicality, technical quality, and tactical discipline make them a dangerous opponent for any team that underestimates them. A favorable group-stage draw could position them to challenge for a knockout berth, replicating their 2014 achievement. The expanded tournament format helps, but Algeria's progress will ultimately depend on the fitness and form of their talismanic captain. If Mahrez produces his magic and the supporting cast performs to its potential, a Round of 16 appearance — and potentially a deeper run — is within reach for this proud footballing nation.