Algeria arrive at the 2026 World Cup for their fifth appearance, returning to the tournament for the first time since 2014. Their record on the biggest stage is modest in trophies but rich in moments. The 1982 tournament in Spain announced them to the world: they beat West Germany two goals to one, only to be eliminated by the notorious Disgrace of Gijon, a collusive result between West Germany and Austria that denied them a place in the knockout rounds. Their best finish remains the round of 16 in Brazil in 2014, where they pushed eventual champions Germany all the way before losing two goals to one in extra time.

Algeria's route to 2026 was built on consistency across a demanding CAF group. Drawn into Group G alongside Uganda, Mozambique, Guinea, Botswana and Somalia, they topped the table with 25 points from ten matches, winning eight, drawing one and losing one, and scoring 24 goals in the process. They clinched their place on 10/09/25, with a three nil victory over Somalia, captain Riyad Mahrez scoring once and setting up two goals for Mohamed Amoura. It was a commanding campaign that restored Les Fennecs to the global stage after a twelve year absence, and a reminder of the depth of talent this generation carries.