Algeria head coach Vladimir Petkovic is set to use Thursday’s Algerian Cup final between USM Alger and CR Belouizdad as a decisive scouting opportunity, with four players under close observation ahead of the 2026 World Cup squad submission deadline.
The highly anticipated final, a repeat of last season’s showpiece won 2-0 by USM Alger, carries added significance beyond domestic silverware. Petkovic is expected to conduct what sources describe as a “final field inspection” of selected players before confirming his squad list, which must be submitted to FIFA by 1 June.
The match, taking place at the Nelson Mandela Stadium, also offers a historic edge. Both clubs are tied as the competition’s most successful sides, each with nine Algerian Cup titles, meaning the winner will move ahead as the outright leader.
Goalkeeping concerns force urgent evaluation
A private source told Winwin that Petkovic’s primary focus will be on two goalkeepers — USM Alger’s Oussama Benbot and CR Belouizdad’s Farid Chaal — as Algeria grapple with a growing injury crisis in that position.
Anthony Mandrea and Melvin Mastel have both suffered serious injuries requiring surgery, ruling them out of the World Cup. Meanwhile, Luca Zidane’s availability remains uncertain after undergoing surgery for a broken jaw and chin, despite offering reassurances to fans.
With limited options, the final provides a high-pressure environment for Benbot and Chaal to demonstrate their readiness for international duty.
Both players have impressed domestically this season, prompting calls from supporters and analysts for their inclusion in the national team. However, Benbot’s case is complicated by his previous decision to retire from international football following the last Africa Cup of Nations.
A Winwin source said: “The door has not been completely closed to him, even though he was the one who rushed to announce his retirement from international play after the last African Cup of Nations in Morocco, while Petkovic intends to stick to his position regarding respecting the Al-Ittihad goalkeeper’s decision and without trying to convince him to change his mind.”
Potential return not ruled out
Despite this stance, there remains a possibility of a return under certain conditions. The same source indicated that third-party mediation could play a role if Petkovic becomes convinced of Benbot’s technical value.
Benbot’s upcoming schedule may prove decisive. The USM Alger goalkeeper is set to feature in three major finals within 19 days, including the Algerian Cup and CAF competition finals, offering multiple opportunities to make his case.
Algeria has previously seen players reverse retirement decisions when needed, including Andy Delort under Djamel Belmadi and Alexandre Oukidja during Petkovic’s tenure.
Defensive options also under scrutiny
Petkovic’s attention will not be limited to goalkeepers. The coach is also expected to assess USM Alger defender Achraf Abada and CR Belouizdad left-back Noufel Khassif.
Both players are regarded among the top defenders in the Algerian league, with Abada in particular gaining momentum following a strong showing during the national team’s recent training camp in Italy.
Capable of playing both right-back and centre-back, Abada’s versatility has strengthened his case for inclusion. Thursday’s final could serve as a decisive platform to secure his place in the World Cup squad.
A final with dual stakes
While the Algerian Cup final already promises intense domestic rivalry and historic significance, it now doubles as a high-stakes audition for national team hopefuls.
For Petkovic, the match represents one of the final opportunities to assess in-form local talent under competitive pressure before finalising a squad that must balance experience, fitness, and depth.
Selection decisions hinge on high-pressure performances
With injuries reshaping Algeria’s World Cup preparations, Petkovic’s reliance on domestic performers has intensified. The Algerian Cup final may ultimately influence not just who lifts the trophy, but who earns a place on football’s biggest stage.
