Algeria

Algeria arrive at 2026 as one of Africa's most talented and ambitious squads, still drawing on the confidence of their 2019 Africa Cup of Nations triumph and a subsequent period of sustained excellence. Les Fennecs boast a squad rich in Ligue 1 and Premier League experience, combining technical midfield creativity with blistering attacking pace. The forward line is a genuine strength — Riyad Mahrez's creative vision and set-piece delivery, combined with the directness and speed of Islam Slimani's successors, give Algeria multiple routes to goal. In midfield, the intelligence and passing ability of players honed in France's top division provide the platform for Algeria's expansive attacking style. Coach Vladimir Petković, who guided Switzerland to a Euro 2020 quarter-final, brings tactical sophistication and tournament nous to a squad already brimming with individual quality. Algeria's passionate fanbase — one of the most vociferous in African football — will create a hostile atmosphere for opponents at every venue. With experience across Europe's top leagues, a strong spine of players in their prime years, and the hunger to prove that their 2019 continental success was no flash in the pan, Les Fennecs are contenders to emerge from their group and make a statement in the knockout rounds.