FILE - Algeria's head coach Vladimir Petkovic during the Africa Cup of Nations quarterfinal against Nigeria. | Photo Credit: AP

There is as much at stake for Algeria and head coach Vladimir Petkovic at FIFA World Cup 2026.

Petkovic’s initiation at major tournaments was not the best, as his side lost 0-2 to Nigeria in the AFCON quarterfinals.

To defeat DR Congo one round earlier, Algeria needed extra-time. But in the lead-up to the World Cup, Algeria drew 0-0 with Uruguay and beat Netherlands 1-0 which suggests that Petkovic might just be hitting the right notes at the right time.

Petkovic has prior experience at the World Cup, having led Switzerland to the round of 16 in the tournament in 2018.

The 62-year-old joined Algeria in 2024 and has been in charge for 41 games, winning 29 of them.

Days ahead of the World Cup, Algeria had extended Petkovic’s until 2028.

Vladimir Petkovic’s record as head coach:

• Matches: 749
• Wins: 376
• Draws: 175
• Losses: 198
• Win percentage: 50.20

Vladimir Petkovic’s record as Algeria head coach:

• Matches: 41
• Wins: 29
• Draws: 9
• Losses: 3
• Win percentage: 70.73

What did Vladimir Petkovic say before the World Cup?

On the support Algeria has received in Kansas:

“Seeing 5-600 people that first evening, fans that were waiting outside our hotel, it really gave me goosebump.It filled me with a source of pride. We saw that there were so many US citizens that had scarves for us. They showed so much support and they wanted to celebrate this moment with the team.”

“From a football standpoint, that we can also get through to the knockout stage and maybe everyone from Kansas can travel with us to another city,” Petković said.

Published on Jun 16, 2026