Algeria test new faces against Guatemala as world cup preparations gather pace

Algeria face Guatemala in a friendly in Italy, with coach Vladimir Petkovic set to test new players and tactics ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

Algeria national football team are set to take on Guatemala national football team in a friendly match on Friday as part of their preparations for the FIFA World Cup 2026.

The encounter will be played at the Stadio Luigi Ferraris in Genoa, with kick-off scheduled for 20:30 local time in Algeria (22:30 Mecca time). The match forms a key part of Algeria’s ongoing training camp in Italy, which is designed to fine-tune the squad ahead of their return to the World Cup after a 12-year absence.

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Petkovic looks to reshape squad

Head coach Vladimir Petkovic is expected to use the fixture as an opportunity to experiment with new players and tactical setups. The current training camp is the penultimate stage of preparation before the global tournament, making it a crucial period for assessment and selection.

Petkovic has introduced several fresh faces into the squad, signalling a shift towards renewal. Among those included for the first time are goalkeepers Melvin Mastel and Kilian Belazouk, as well as Achraf Abada, Adil Aouchiche, Fares Ghejimes and Nadhir Ben Bouali. In addition, players who have previously had limited opportunities are being reintegrated, notably Yassine Titraoui.

A new-look starting line-up

Algeria’s starting XI for the match is expected to reflect this transitional phase. In goal, Melvin Mastel is likely to be handed his debut, marking a significant change from the team’s usual line-up.

Defensively, the quartet of Rafik Belghali, Souhaib Nair, Ramy Bensebaini and Rayan Ait-Nouri is set to start, with the possibility of further adjustments during the match, including the introduction of Achraf Abada in the second half.

In midfield, Petkovic is expected to rely on a trio comprising Yassine Titraoui, Adil Aouchiche and Houssem Aouar. The latter returns after missing the previous Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco due to injury, adding experience to an otherwise evolving midfield unit.

Fresh attacking options

The attacking line is also set for a notable overhaul. Fares Ghejimes is poised to take advantage of the absence of Anis Hadj Moussa, who is unavailable due to injury. He is expected to feature alongside Amine Gouiri and Adel Boulbina, forming a completely refreshed forward line.

This reshaped attack underlines Petkovic’s intention to evaluate new combinations and identify players capable of delivering at the highest level.

Formation and tactical balance

Algeria are expected to adopt a 4-3-3 formation, aiming to balance defensive solidity with attacking fluidity. While experimentation remains a priority, maintaining team structure and cohesion will also be essential as the coaching staff assess potential line-ups for the World Cup.

Building towards a global return

Having secured qualification for their fifth World Cup appearance, Algeria are using this period to rebuild and refine their squad. The Italy training camp represents a vital step in that process, offering both established and emerging players the chance to stake their claim.

Friday’s match against Guatemala may be a friendly in name, but it carries significant importance as Algeria continue their preparations for one of football’s biggest stages.

Abdul Majeed Yakubu

Abdul Majeed is a dedicated football writer with a strong foundation in both technology and journalism. He holds a degree in Computer Science from Accra Technical University, but his passion for storytelling saw him begin his journalism journey even before entering university.He previously worked as a Staff Writer at Ghanaguardian.com, where he developed his craft in news writing and digital publishing. His growing interest in sports journalism has since led him to focus on football, bringing a unique blend of analytical thinking and narrative clarity to his work.Abdul is currently a Staff Writer at African.Football, where he contributes engaging and insightful content aimed at a global audience of African football enthusiasts.

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