World Cup 2026: Luca Zidane excited about Algeria's clash with Argentina

Grenada goalkeeper Luca Zidane is set to lead Algeria into the 2026 World Cup as the Fennecs prepare to challenge world champions Argentina in Kansas City.

Twelve years after Algeria’s historic 2014 quarterfinal against eventual champion Germany, the 28-year-old feels excited to play in his first World Cup.

Speaking during the team’s final training session, Zidane emphasised his love for the moment. "We play football to compete against the best. Tomorrow (Tuesday), we'll be playing against the world's elite. I'm happy to be here, to be playing in this World Cup, and to represent my country. It will be a great match," he said.

Badly injured with a double fracture of his chin and jaw in late April that threatened his World Cup plans, Zidane is now fully recovered and wearing a protective mask.

"We're ready physically and mentally, that's the most important thing. We're really looking forward to this match. My injury was tough, but it's behind me now. We know that keeping a clean sheet is already a big step in a match. We'll try to be solid defensively and, with our attacking qualities, we can cause them problems," he added.

With attackers like Mohamed Amoura and Anis Hadj Moussa, Algeria hope to punish Argentina on the break. Zinedine Zidane will watch his son from the stands, choosing this match over France versus Senegal.