An honorable journey. This is how we can summarize Algeria’s performance at CAN 2025. After achieving a flawless performance during the group stage (3 wins and 3 matches), the Fennecs beat DR Congo in the eighth (1-0), before falling against a clearly superior Nigeria in the quarter (0-2).
Now looking towards the 2026 World Cup, Vladimir Petkovic is already refining his list for the next international gathering which will take place next March. A list in which a pillar of the selection for many years should not appear: Baghdad Bounedjah.
According to media information Elkhabarthe 34-year-old striker will neither be called up in March nor for the 2026 World Cup. Obviously, Vladimir Petkovic has decided to make room in the sector for the young and talented new generation.
The hero of the CAN 2019 final
It is therefore a page which is about to turn among the Greens. Baghdad Bounedjah wore the Algerian tunic 86 times for 35 goals scored. The native of Oran notably scored the only goal in the CAN 2019 final won by Algeria against Senegal (1-0).
As a reminder, the Fennecs will play the fifth World Cup in their history next summer in the United States, Mexico and Canada. Placed in Group J, the Algerians will face the reigning world champions, Argentina, then Austria and Jordan.
