Algeria's national U17 team is set to participate in the World Cup in Qatar from November 19 to December 13, 2026, marking their return to the tournament after a 17-year absence. The team's coach, Amine Ghimouz, has announced a 21-player squad, comprising players from both domestic and European clubs. This squad aims to make a strong impression in the tournament, which will feature Algeria in Group J alongside the United States, Chile, and Montenegro.
The goalkeeping trio selected for the tournament includes Ivan Guemdani from Olympique de Marseille, Nazim Benmeddoub from Paradou AC, and Yazid Tifrani from RC Strasbourg. In defense, Ghimouz has called up Ayoub Dahmas from USM Alger, Anas Belkanichi from Toulouse FC, Mahmoud Noubli from Paradou AC, Kenzo Brignone from Olympique de Marseille, Ilyes Mekkaoui from FC Volendam, and Noam Benramdane from Montpellier HSC.
The midfield contingent features six players: Ramy Benkhiat from OGC Nice, Walid Nechab from Olympique Lyonnais, Rayan Zidane from Bayer Leverkusen, Ilyes Grini from RC Lens, Adam Benali from Le Havre AC, and Nazim Benghezel from Amiens SC. This blend of domestic and European experience is expected to provide a solid foundation for the team.
In attack, Ghimouz has selected Yacine Abed from Paradou AC, Melwane Zaidi from FC Bâle, Zadig Bendiab from Levante UD, Khalil Touali from Olympique Akbou, Mahdi Maghlout from Inter Milan, and Sid Ali Kaddouri from Paradou AC. The team's attacking lineup appears well-rounded, with players from various top clubs.
Notably, the squad includes some high-profile absences. Players like Mouhammed Valmy, Yanis Messaoudi from AC Milan, Bilal Daaou from Eintracht Francfort, and Zinedine Zouai from Sochaux are not part of the 21-player roster. Their absence may impact the team's dynamics and performance.
Algeria's U17 team faces a challenging task in Group J, with matches against the United States, Chile, and Montenegro. To progress beyond the group stage, the team will need to perform at their best and capitalize on scoring opportunities. The squad's mix of domestic and international experience may prove beneficial in this endeavor.
With their diverse backgrounds and skills, the Algerian U17 team is poised to make a strong showing in the World Cup. Coach Amine Ghimouz's strategy and the team's collective effort will be crucial in determining their success in the tournament. The team's performance will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike.
Key points
- Algeria's U17 team will compete in Group J against the United States, Chile, and Montenegro.
- The squad features a mix of players from domestic clubs and European teams.
- Notable absences from the squad include Mouhammed Valmy and Yanis Messaoudi from AC Milan.
