Algeria kicks off its 2026 World Cup campaign against heavyweights Argentina, but winger Riyad Mahrez is the shock omission from the starting lineup. Algeria is set to clash with Argentina in their highly anticipated World Cup opener, but Al-Ahli star Riyad Mahrez will start the match from the bench in a massive tactical gamble by manager Vladimir Petkovic.
The decision to drop the former Manchester City winger comes as a surprise, given that Mahrez started in Algeria‘s pre-tournament tune-ups—including a 1-0 victory over the Netherlands and a dominant 4-0 dismantling of Bolivia. Yet, Petkovic has opted for a fresh blueprint to counter the reigning world champions.
Anis Hadj Moussa will get the nod to attack Argentina’s left flank, replacing Mahrez in a dynamic, high-energy front three alongside forwards Ibrahim Maza and Amine Gouiri.
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