World Cup 2026 qualifiers / Algeria - Uganda: The Greens' starting eleven is out! (Official)

For this 10th and final matchday of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, set to take place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, Vladimir Petkovic has surprised everyone with his starting choices. Facing a Ugandan side still fighting for a historic qualification, the Cranes absolutely must win in Tizi Ouzou to have any hope of finishing among the best runners-up and reaching the playoffs. The Algerian coach has opted for an unexpected lineup.

Here is Algeria's starting XI against Uganda:

Goalkeeper: Zidane

Defenders: Belghali - Mandi - Bensebaini - Hadjam

Midfielders: Zorgane - Boudaoui - Maza

Forwards: Mahrez - Amoura - Gouiri

Already guaranteed to finish top of their group, the Greens have nothing left to fear in terms of the standings. Yet, the stakes remain high: a victory would allow Algeria to snatch valuable points in the FIFA rankings and edge closer to the world Top 30—a strategic objective ahead of CAN 2025 in Morocco and preparations for the World Cup. This final qualifier is therefore a prime opportunity for Petkovic to test new options while reinforcing the positive momentum built over the past several months.