The Algerian national football team has made a significant decision ahead of their friendly match against Guatemala on Friday. Coach Vladimir Petkovic has officially excluded Luca Zidane from the starting lineup. This marks a critical moment for the young goalkeeper, who was previously projected to be a key player for Algeria in the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) 2025.
Match Details
The friendly match is scheduled for 20:30 local time at the Luigi Ferraris Stadium in Genoa. In Zidane’s place, Petkovic has chosen Melvin Mastil, who will earn his first cap with the team.
New Faces in the Squad
- Melvin Mastil: The 25-year-old goalkeeper, standing 1.94 meters tall, is contracted with Lausanne-Sport but is currently on loan at Stade Nyonnais in the Swiss second division.
- Achref Abada: Another debutant, Abada will play as a right-back. He is a player from USM Alger.
Abada will join defenders Belaïd, Bensebaini, and Aït-Nouri to form the Algerian backline.
Returning Players
Additionally, Amine Gouiri returns to the squad after missing the CAN due to a shoulder injury. The Olympique de Marseille attacker will be supported in the forward line by Mohammed Amoura and captain Riyad Mahrez. The midfield trio for Algeria will include Zerrouki, Titraoui, and Aouar.
Algeria’s Starting Eleven
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| Goalkeeper | Melvin Mastil |
| Defender | Achref Abada |
| Defender | Belaïd |
| Defender | Bensebaini |
| Defender | Aït-Nouri |
| Midfielder | Zerrouki |
| Midfielder | Titraoui |
| Midfielder | Aouar |
| Forward | Riyad Mahrez (captain) |
| Forward | Amine Gouiri |
| Forward | Mohammed Amoura |
Guatemala’s Lineup
The team from Guatemala will have Navarro in goal and a defensive lineup that includes Yanes, Pinto (captain), Hernandez, and Morales. The midfield consists of Escobar, Robles, Rosales, and Santis, with Minoz and Lom leading the attack.
This match serves as an important preparation step for both teams ahead of their respective campaigns. Algeria hopes to build momentum with new talents while ensuring a solid performance without Luca Zidane.
