TURIN, Italy – Algeria manager Vladimir Petkovic has confirmed Luca Zidane will start in goal against Uruguay Tuesday evening at the Juventus Stadium, a key tune-up match for both nations ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The decision comes after Zidane was benched in Algeria’s dominant 7-0 victory over Guatemala on Friday, with Melvin Mastil of Stade Nyonnais taking his place.
The spotlight will be on Zidane, the son of French football icon Zinedine Zidane, as he aims to solidify his position as Algeria’s first-choice goalkeeper. He first earned the trust of coach Petkovic during the recent African Cup of Nations, and a strong performance against a tough Uruguay side is crucial as Algeria prepares for the expanded 48-team World Cup tournament, co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada next summer.
Zidane’s journey to representing Algeria has been met with scrutiny from some quarters, with critics questioning the timing of his switch from France. However, the goalkeeper recently addressed these concerns, emphasizing his deep familial connection to the North African nation. “Our connection to Algeria and our love for it are indescribable,” Zidane told Onze Mondial magazine, as reported by Africa Soccer. “Some might think we’ve lived in France or Spain our whole lives, but we’ve been immersed in Algerian culture since childhood, thanks to our grandparents who passed this love on to us.”
Petkovic’s lineup against Uruguay features a solid defensive line of Belghali, Mandi, Belaid, Bensebaini, and Aït-Nouri shielding Zidane. In midfield, Boudaoui returns to the starting eleven after recovering from a flu-like illness, partnering with former Lyon midfielder Houssem Aouar. Notably, Riyad Mahrez will commence the match on the bench, with Maza and Chaïbi supporting forward Gouiri in attack. Gouiri, who was forced to withdraw from the recent African Cup of Nations, scored a brace in the win over Guatemala.
The Algerian starting eleven is: Zidane – Belghali, Mandi, Belaid, Bensebaini, Aït-Nouri – Maza, Aouar, Boudaoui, Chaïbi – Gouiri.
Uruguay, managed by Marcelo Bielsa, will counter with a lineup of Rochet – Varela, Gimenez, Olivera, Araujo – De Arrascaeta, Valverde, Ugarte, Araujo – Viñas, Canobbio.
This match presents a significant challenge for Algeria, facing a Uruguay side known for its tactical discipline and attacking prowess. Federico Valverde, a key player for Uruguay, will be a familiar face to Zidane, having previously been teammates. The game, scheduled for 8:30 PM local time (20:30 CET), offers a valuable opportunity for both teams to assess their preparations ahead of the World Cup. For Algeria, it’s a chance to build momentum and further integrate Zidane into the squad.
The decision to start Zidane against Uruguay underscores Petkovic’s faith in the young goalkeeper, despite the recent rotation. It’s a clear signal that Petkovic views Zidane as a vital component of his World Cup plans. The Juventus Stadium is expected to be filled with fans eager to witness the clash between these two nations, both aiming to make a strong impression on the global stage.
The expanded World Cup format, featuring 48 teams, presents new opportunities for nations like Algeria to compete against the world’s best. The tournament’s increased accessibility is designed to foster greater global participation and development of the sport. For Zidane and Algeria, the journey to the 2026 World Cup is not just about qualification. it’s about representing a nation and honoring a legacy.
Following Tuesday’s friendly, Algeria will continue their preparations with further training camps and potential friendly matches. The focus will remain on refining tactics, building team cohesion, and ensuring all players are in peak condition for the challenges that lie ahead in the World Cup. The Algerian Football Federation has yet to announce details of future friendlies, but updates will be available on their official website.
Fans can follow the match live on beIN SPORTS and other international broadcasters. Updates will also be available on the Algerian Football Federation’s social media channels.
