Algeria’s all-time leading goalscorer, Islam Slimani, has delivered a scathing assessment of the Desert Foxes following their 2-0 defeat to Switzerland in the Round of 32 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, insisting the team’s shortcomings extend far beyond a single elimination.
Speaking as a beIN Sports analyst, the former Leicester City striker questioned the tactical direction of Vladimir Petkovic’s side, arguing that Algeria still lack a defined footballing identity nearly two years into the Bosnian coach’s reign.
“The problem plaguing the national team has existed for almost two years,” Slimani said.
Slimani criticises constant tactical changes
Slimani believes Algeria’s continued changes in formation and personnel have prevented the team from developing consistency and cohesion.
“The lineup changes every match. Today, the coach reverted to the same system he used against Nigeria, and the result was the same,” he said.
He also dismissed suggestions that Algeria’s struggles stem from their choice of attacking system.
“The problem is not playing with a centre-forward or a false nine, but the lack of a clear identity. For almost two years, we have seen the team alternate between the two systems without any real continuity.”
Against Switzerland, Petkovic deployed a fluid frontline featuring Ibrahim Maza, Riyad Mahrez and Houssem Aouar rotating positions without a recognised striker. While the approach created moments of promise, Algeria were unable to turn their possession into clear-cut chances.
Concerns over preparation
Slimani also questioned whether the squad had been sufficiently prepared to execute such a demanding tactical approach.
“Did the players actually train to play with a false nine? Because this system requires automatic reflexes, collective movement, and very specific mechanisms. If the team hasn’t worked on it, then that’s a real problem.”
His comments reflect wider concerns that Algeria continue to rely heavily on moments of individual brilliance rather than a structured attacking system.
“Where is the identity?”
The former striker argued that Algeria’s best performances continue to depend on the quality of individuals rather than collective organisation.
“Very often, the only solution is to give the ball to Ait-Nouri so that he can find a way through thanks to his talent, or wait for a moment of brilliance from Mahrez or Maza. But where is the identity of this team? Where are the tactical sequences? Where is the style of play?”
Despite the criticism, Algeria enjoyed a memorable tournament by reaching the World Cup knockout stages for only the second time in their history. After losing their opening match to Argentina, the Desert Foxes recovered with a victory over Jordan and a thrilling 3-3 draw against Austria to secure qualification.
Results cannot hide deeper issues
Slimani concluded by insisting that progress should be measured by the team’s style of play rather than results alone.
“For two years now, I haven’t seen any real identity in this team. Even if we lose, it’s not a problem if it’s with a clear playing style and a strong personality. Today, the majority of our chances and goals come more from individual brilliance than from genuine teamwork.”
Petkovic has defended his work following the defeat to Switzerland, describing Algeria’s run to the Round of 32 as a significant achievement after a 12-year absence from the World Cup. The coach accepted responsibility for his tactical decisions and vowed to use the tournament as a foundation for future progress.
