Petković backs Algeria to challenge in tough 2026 World Cup group despite Argentina test

Algeria coach Vladimir Petković says his side will approach the 2026 FIFA World Cup with belief despite being drawn in one of the tournament’s most demanding groups.

The Desert Foxes landed in Group J alongside Argentina, Austria and Jordan, setting up an opening match against the reigning world champions.

Petković, who took charge of Algeria earlier this year, acknowledged the scale of the challenge but insists his team will target qualification for the knockout stages.

Speaking after the draw in Washington, the Algeria coach underlined his expectations for the group stage.

"A very interesting group. A group made up of three teams that will have to play for second place. Argentina will be a favourite. It will certainly be very interesting. I think Argentina is the best," Petković said.

"We (Algeria), along with Austria, and even Jordan, are doing everything we can to secure second place. I think we'll have a good chance.

"The first match must be against Argentina. Our goal? As always, to win. I'm saying we can even advance."

The 2014 round-of-16 finish remains Algeria’s best World Cup performance, and the Bosnian-Swiss manager says the current squad must show the same ambition.

Argentina enter the competition as overwhelming favourites to top the group, leaving Algeria, Austria and Jordan to battle for the second qualification slot.

Petković believes that race is wide open, and says his team will not travel to North America simply to participate.

With Algeria opening their campaign against Lionel Messi’s world champions, Petković says his players must embrace the moment and believe they can deliver a major upset.

 His comments reflect a blend of realism and optimism — and he wants his team to carry that mindset into the tournament.