Oussama Benbot has admitted that his decision to retire from international football after the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations was taken too quickly, as the goalkeeper prepares for a return to the Algeria national team ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
The USM Alger goalkeeper had announced his retirement from international football shortly after the continental tournament, a move that generated widespread debate among supporters and media in Algeria.
Speculation surrounding his future with the national team continued for several months before his recent return to the squad during Algeria’s main preparation camp for the World Cup.
The “Desert Warriors” are currently continuing preparations for the tournament amid increasing competition for places in the squad, particularly in the goalkeeping department after coach Vladimir Petković selected four goalkeepers for the current camp.
Benbot’s return comes after what the article described as an apology to the Swiss coach and public statements intended to close the chapter on his retirement from international football.
According to the report, Petkovic had requested those steps before considering the goalkeeper for a return to the national team.
Speaking to the official channel of the Algerian Football Federation, Benbot acknowledged that he regretted the decision he made after the Africa Cup of Nations and described it as rushed.
“Now I have returned to the Algerian national team after the retirement decision I made following the Africa Cup of Nations. We are preparing very seriously, so that it will be successful, God willing.”
The goalkeeper said his focus had now shifted fully towards helping Algeria perform strongly at the World Cup in the United States.
“We are preparing to participate in the World Cup in America so that we can honor our country,” before adding regarding his retirement: “It was a decision I made somewhat hastily.”
Benbot also revealed the role played by Walid Sadi, president of the Algerian Football Federation, in helping resolve the situation and facilitate his return to the national side.
“I spoke to the president of the Algerian Football Federation, and I thank him for his understanding.”
The goalkeeper further explained that discussions with Petkovic had contributed to restoring the relationship between the player and the coaching staff.
“We also held a meeting with the coach (Vladimir Petkovic), and thank God things are back to normal now.”
The comments appeared to confirm that the disagreement surrounding his international retirement had now been fully resolved.
With the issue behind him, Benbot said he is now concentrating entirely on Algeria’s upcoming challenges and hopes to contribute positively during the World Cup campaign.
“All I want now is to do my best, and give everything I have to represent Algeria, and honor the colors of the national team.”
Algeria is preparing for the 2026 World Cup with a series of friendly matches designed to test the squad before the start of the tournament.
Benbot highlighted the importance of the upcoming fixtures against Netherlands and Bolivia, scheduled for 3 and 10 June respectively.
“We have two standard friendly matches ahead of us in preparation for the World Cup, and we are preparing very seriously for them, so that we are in the best possible shape at the start of the World Cup.”
The goalkeeper’s return adds further competition within Algeria’s squad as Petkovic continues to evaluate his options ahead of the global tournament.
Supporters are also expected to closely monitor the battle for the number one position, particularly after the controversy that surrounded Benbot’s departure and eventual comeback.
For Algeria, the episode represents both the resolution of a difficult internal situation and the return of an experienced goalkeeper at a crucial moment before the country begins its World Cup campaign.
With preparations continuing and expectations growing among fans, Benbot now faces the challenge of rebuilding trust and proving his value once again in the colours of the national team.
