Renowned journalist Romain Molina has revealed that the Algerian Football Federation (FAF) has decided to part ways with head coach Vladimir Petković following the team’s underwhelming performance at the World Cup 2026.
The Desert Warriors exited the tournament in the Round of 32. After a group stage that included a lone victory over Jordan, a defeat to Argentina, and a draw against Austria, Algeria was ultimately knocked out after a 2-0 loss to Switzerland in the first knockout round.
Public Backlash and Contract Chaos:
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Tactical Collapse: Algerian fans and pundits were left furious by the team’s lackluster performance against Switzerland, criticizing a total lack of their trademark intensity.
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The Contract Dilemma: The sacking comes under immense public pressure, ironically just days after Petković had signed a two-year contract extension prior to the World Cup.
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Resignation vs. Dismissal: While reports confirm Petković’s immediate departure, mystery remains over whether he officially resigned or was formally dismissed by the FAF.
What’s Next for Algeria? The Algerian Federation has already begun the search for a replacement. Speculation is mounting over initial talks with current Nigeria coach Éric Chelle, while French tactician Hervé Renard is also being strongly linked to the job.
The 62-year-old Swiss manager took charge of Algeria in 2024. Although he led the team to the quarter-finals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), a painful defeat to Nigeria sparked early criticism. While the federation back then insisted on keeping him for the World Cup, the gamble ultimately failed to pay off.
