CAN 2025 – Algeria: Oussama Benbot ends his international career (official)

The decision by Oussama Benbot has sent shockwaves through the Algerian football scene. Demoted to third-choice goalkeeper behind Luca Zidane and Anthony Mandrea, the international shot-stopper has officially announced his retirement from international duty via a press statement. It's a bold and decisive move, coming just six months before the 2026 World Cup, especially as he was tipped to make the final squad.

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This decision comes in a unique context, marked by his slide down the pecking order among goalkeepers—now dominated by Luca Zidane and Anthony Mandrea. It's a demotion that stands in stark contrast to earlier expectations for Benbot, who was once considered a serious contender for the starting spot before Zidane's arrival.

Without delving into the player's personal motivations, this retirement nonetheless reignites the ongoing debate about the role of domestic players in the national team. It's a sensitive issue, one that goes beyond Benbot's case and raises questions about the balance within the squad managed by Vladimir Petkovic.

Mahdi Zakaria LAZRI |

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