Speaking at a press conference on Thursday before Algeria’s upcoming friendly against Guatemala national football team, Petković emphasised that competition within the squad remains open, with final decisions yet to be made.
The match, scheduled for Friday evening in Genoa, forms part of Algeria’s preparations for future international competitions, including the World Cup.
Squad selection still open
Petković acknowledged that his squad remains large, and indicated that players will need to prove their worth in training and matches if they are to secure a place in the final 26-man squad.
“Our squad is very large, and the field will determine which players will participate with us in the World Cup . We will not have much time to prepare for this tournament, but everything must be in order before a tournament of this magnitude.”
FIFA has set 30 May as the deadline for submitting final squad lists, leaving limited time for experimentation and decision-making.
Absences and selection choices
The coach expressed confidence in his current group despite the absence of several notable players. Midfielder Ismaël Bennacer is unavailable due to injury, while striker Baghdad Bounedjah has been omitted for technical reasons.
In Bounedjah’s place, Petković has opted to include younger forward Nadir Benbouali, highlighting a willingness to give emerging players an opportunity at international level.
Focus on goalkeeping options
Particular attention has been given to the goalkeeping department, with Petković calling up Mehdi Mastil and Rayan Belazouk for the first time. Notably, no goalkeepers from the domestic Algerian league have been included in the current squad.
“The goalkeepers work with a special staff, I monitor everything and everything they do, and I can say that the four goalkeepers have done a good job so far.”
He added further praise for Mastil, stating: “He has the potential to play for the national team,” and confirmed that different goalkeepers will be used in upcoming matches against Guatemala and Uruguay to allow for comprehensive evaluation.
Recognition for emerging talent
Petković also highlighted the progress of defender Ashraf Abada, who has joined the national team camp for the first time. The USM Alger player has impressed the coaching staff with his recent performances.
“Abada is an important player, he showed good potential in the Arab Championship, and he is a good player and we have been following him since he was in Chlef and then his transfer to USM Alger.”
The coach added: “I noticed in the first training sessions that he has the potential to stay in the group, but he needs time to adapt more.”
Equal opportunities across the squad
Petković also underlined his approach to squad selection, stating that he does not differentiate between players based on whether they compete domestically or abroad. He indicated that close monitoring of players ensures that performance levels are assessed consistently.
As Algeria continue their preparations, the upcoming friendlies are expected to play a crucial role in shaping the final squad. With limited time before the World Cup, competition for places remains intense, and, as Petković has made clear, decisions will ultimately be determined by what happens on the pitch.
