2026 World Cup: An Algeria opponent exposes their weaknesses

Africa Today at 08:15

Mahdi Zakaria LAZRI

News Editor

Just days before Argentina vs. Algeria, Carlos Lampe delivered a no-holds-barred analysis of the Fennecs. The Bolivian goalkeeper, however, believes that some Algerian players are still capable of turning a match on its head.

Carlos Lampe conceded four goals against Algeria, but that didn’t stop him from drawing several lessons from the encounter. The Bolivian keeper spoke to Argentine outlet Diario Olé the day after the Fennecs’ 4-0 victory over Bolivia, a result powered by a Mohamed Amoura brace and goals from Aïssa Mandi and Anis Hadj Moussa in Algeria’s final warm-up before the 2026 World Cup. Lampe provided a detailed—and at times critical—breakdown of Algeria’s game, just hours before Vladimir Petkovic’s men kick off their World Cup campaign against Argentina.

Lampe didn’t hesitate to point out several flaws in Algeria’s style of play. In his view, Vladimir Petkovic’s side struggles with pressing:

"Algeria is a team that doesn’t press well."

The Bolivian keeper also believes there are offensive opportunities to exploit, especially by attacking down the left to create openings on the opposite wing:

"It’s when you build up on the left. From there, you can switch play and attack on Mahrez’s side."

Defensively, the former Atlético Tucumán goalie finds the Fennecs "a bit static" and expects Algeria to take a cautious approach against Argentina.

"They’ll sit back and wait for a counterattack. This team relies heavily on counters and looks for Mohamed Amoura," he explained.

As a result, Lampe believes the Albiceleste have all the tools needed to control the match:

"I don’t think they’ll have any problems if they’re well-organized in attack and cut off Algeria’s plays."

Still, Lampe is careful not to write off the Fennecs. The Bolivian admits that Riyad Mahrez remains a constant threat, emphasizing that "Mahrez is still unpredictable." It’s a warning that, despite criticism, Algeria boasts individuals capable of tipping the balance at any moment.

Read also: 2026 WC - Argentina: Lionel Messi responds to Algeria and Ibrahim Maza

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