Algiers, December 31, 2025 – Significant alterations have been made to the Algerian national team’s starting lineup for their upcoming match against Equatorial Guinea in the third round of the group stage at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
National team coach Vladimir Petkovic has opted for a revamped squad, resting key players and providing opportunities to those who have seen limited playing time in the previous two matches. This decision reflects a strategic approach to manage player fatigue and assess the depth of the Algerian squad during the tournament.
In a bold move, Petkovic has implemented a total of nine changes to the starting eleven compared to the lineup that secured a victory against Burkina Faso in the previous round. This wholesale shift indicates a desire to evaluate different tactical combinations and give valuable experience to a wider range of players within the team.
The changes are expected to bring fresh energy and a different dynamic to the Algerian side as they face Equatorial Guinea. While the core of the team remains focused on securing qualification for the knockout stages, Petkovic’s willingness to experiment demonstrates a long-term vision for the squad’s development.
DZWatch will provide a full analysis of the match following its conclusion.
