Algerian national team goalkeeper Oussama Benbot has emphasized the crucial role of upcoming friendly matches against the Netherlands and Bolivia in preparing the squad for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. The Desert Foxes are set to face the Netherlands on June 3rd in Rotterdam, followed by a clash with Bolivia on June 10th in Kansas City, as they aim to fine-tune their strategy for the demanding qualification campaign.
Algeria World Cup 2026 qualifiers preparation
"We anticipate two benchmark friendly matches against the Netherlands and Bolivia to ensure we are in the best possible condition for the World Cup qualifiers," Benbot stated in an interview with the Algerian Football Federation's (FAF) media department. The national team commenced their intensive training camp at the National Technical Center (CTN) in Sidi Moussa on Monday. Approximately twenty players have already joined the camp, with the final squad list of 26 players expected to be announced today during a press conference hosted by head coach Vladimir Petkovic at the Nelson Mandela Stadium in Baraki.
Following a brief respite for the Eid holiday, allowing players to reunite with their families, the team resumed training on Thursday. This session saw the highly anticipated return of key figures, including captain Riyad Mahrez, Houssem Aouar, and Rayan Aït-Nouri. Benbot, 31, has officially returned to the national squad, signaling an end to his brief international retirement that followed the recent Africa Cup of Nations (CAN-2025). "After the CAN, I made a somewhat hasty decision regarding my international retirement. I had a constructive conversation with the federation president, whom I thank for his understanding, as well as with the national coach. Everything has been resolved now," he expressed with satisfaction.
The top goalkeeper of the season affirmed his complete commitment to the upcoming challenges for the Greens, expressing a strong desire to represent Algeria with pride. "I am eager to continue working hard to defend the colors of Algeria with dignity," Benbot concluded.
Related topics: Algeria football, Oussama Benbot, World Cup 2026 qualifiers, Algeria national team, Vladimir Petkovic, friendly matches
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