The curse of the guardians strikes the Algerian national team.

The Algerian national team has entered a critical phase just weeks before the start of the 2026 World Cup, as its options in the goalkeeper position have diminished due to injuries and a decline in readiness, prompting the coaching staff to consider bringing back retired international goalkeeper Osama Ben Bout to the final roster.

Ben Bout, the 31-year-old goalkeeper of CR Belouizdad, stands out as one of the available solutions for coach Vladimir Petkovic, after having an impressive season that led his team to the final of the African Confederation Cup, where they will face Egyptian club Zamalek next Saturday.

The goalkeeper had announced his retirement from international play following the last Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, in protest against being a substitute throughout the tournament. Algerian reports at the time spoke of a disagreement between him and Petkovic due to his limited participation.

The crisis worsened with the injury of Luka Zidane, who suffered a jaw and chin fracture during a match with Granada in Spain last month, in addition to Malvin Mastil undergoing surgery after his debut with Algeria last March.

As for Anthony Mandria, the starting goalkeeper for the national team over the past five years, he has been ruled out due to a shoulder injury with French club Caen, along with a decline in his stock following his team's relegation to the third division, which Petkovic does not favor according to previous statements.

The Bosnian coach has tried to expand the options by calling up young goalkeeper Kylian Belazouq, 19 years old, during the friendlies against Uruguay and Guatemala in March, despite his lack of any official appearances with Rennes in France so far.

Algeria plays in Group 10 of the World Cup alongside Argentina, Austria, and Jordan, amid fears of the ongoing goalkeeper crisis before the final roster is announced later this month.