With just over a month until the 2026 World Cup, Algeria’s preparations are entering a decisive phase. Already set on a first prestigious friendly match against the Netherlands on June 3, Vladimir Petkovic’s men are still looking for their final opponent before the start of the World Cup.
In recent days, several media have mentioned a possible matchup against Panama on June 10 in Kansas City, the future base camp of the Fennecs during the competition. According to journalist Samir Kaabouche, this track ultimately failed due to significant logistical complications linked to the travel of the Panamanian selection.
The main obstacle concerns the schedule of Panama, which will play its first two World Cup matches in Toronto, nearly 1,600 kilometers from Kansas City. An organization deemed too complex to manage a few days before the start of the competition. Also on a sporting level, the Algerian Federation believed that an opponent from CONCACAF did not necessarily constitute ideal preparation before an opening clash against Argentina.
Venezuela, the new option
In this context, Venezuela now appears to be the most credible solution. Recently revealed by Afrik-Foot then relayed by DZfoot, this option has been gaining momentum in recent hours. Led by Salomón Rondón, the South American selection would offer a rough and committed opposition, close to the intensity expected at the World Cup. If the negotiations fail, Bolivia, which failed in the barrages against Iraq, would constitute the preferred alternative.
The FAF now wants to quickly complete this last meeting in order to allow Vladimir Petkovic to refine his final adjustments before announcing his final list. Algeria will begin its preparation on May 25 in Algiers (Algeria) before heading to Rotterdam then the United States. Because the tone will be set immediately with an XXL entry into contention against Argentina, reigning world champion, on June 17.
