Algerian Football Federation and Coach Vladimir Petkovic Terminate Contract
The Algerian national team has parted ways with manager Vladimir Petkovic by mutual consent. Despite reaching the World Cup round of 32, the Bosnian coach exits ahead of the 2027 AFCON qualifiers.
Key takeaways
- Vladimir Petkovic and the Algerian Football Federation ended their contract by mutual agreement on August 3, 2026.
- The 62-year-old coach had previously signed an extension through 2028 before the North American World Cup began.
- Algeria reached the round of 32 in the 48-team World Cup before losing 2-0 to Switzerland.
- The national team must now prepare for 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Zambia, Togo, and Burundi starting in September.
Mutual Exit for Bosnian Manager
The Algerian Football Federation (FAF) announced on Monday, August 3, 2026, that it has officially terminated its professional relationship with head coach Vladimir Petkovic. The decision, which includes the departure of his entire technical staff, was reached through a mutual agreement between the federation and the 62-year-old manager.
This separation comes as a surprise to some observers, given that Petkovic had secured a contract extension through 2028 shortly before the recent World Cup began. Having taken the position in February 2024, his tenure lasted just over two years.
World Cup Performance and Future Challenges
Under Petkovic's leadership, Algeria navigated the expanded 48-team World Cup format in North America. The squad advanced to the round of 32 by qualifying as one of the top eight third-placed teams in the group stages. Their tournament run ended following a 2-0 defeat against Switzerland.
The federation now faces the immediate task of finding a successor before the next international cycle begins. The national team's upcoming schedule includes:
- September 2026: Commencement of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualification matches.
- Group I Competition: Algeria will compete against Zambia, Togo, and Burundi for a spot in the continental tournament.
Source: The Hindu — Sport
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