world cup Comments Why isn’t Riyad Mahrez starting for Algeria vs Argentina at 2026 World Cup? By Gianni Taina Updated on June 16, 2026 Follow us on Google! © Getty Images Riyad Mahrez of Algeria. Algeria is set to clash with Argentina in their highly anticipated World Cup opener, but Al-Ahli star Riyad Mahrez will start the match from the bench in a massive tactical gamble by manager Vladimir Petkovic. The decision to drop the former Manchester City winger comes as a surprise, given that Mahrez started in Algeria ‘s pre-tournament tune-ups—including a 1-0 victory over the Netherlands and a dominant 4-0 dismantling of Bolivia. Yet, Petkovic has opted for a fresh blueprint to counter the reigning world champions. Anis Hadj Moussa will get the nod to attack Argentina ‘s left flank, replacing Mahrez in a dynamic, high-energy front three alongside forwards Ibrahim Maza and Amine Gouiri . Moussa was the hero who delivered the dramatic, late game-winner to sink the Netherlands and also found the back of the net in the blowout victory over Bolivia. Tweet placeholder Backed by that red-hot form, Petkovic is handing him a golden opportunity to start in a high-stakes blockbuster, stepping into the very role that the team’s biggest superstar has monopolized for years. Advertisement Advertisement see also Why isn’t Julian Alvarez starting for Argentina vs Algeria at 2026 World Cup? Algeria confirmed lineup With the tactical puzzle officially solved, manager Vladimir Petkovic has locked in his starting lineup for Algeria’s highly anticipated 2026 World Cup opener against Argentina at Kansas City Stadium. Algeria XI (4-3-3): Luca Zidane; Rafik Belghali, Aissa Mandi, Ramy Bensebaini, Rayan Ait-Nouri; Nabil Bentaleb, Hicham Boudaoui, Fares Chaibi; Ibrahim Maza, Amine Gouiri, Anis Hadj Moussa. 200+ Channels & Local Sports Price: Plans starting at $14.99/mo (Latino) Watch Ligue 1, Copa Libertadores & World Cup Qualifiers Browse Offers Every MLS Match in One Place Price: $12.99/mo (Now included with standard subscription) Watch every MLS regular season game, Playoffs & Leagues Cup Browse Offers Many Sports & ESPN Originals Price: $11.99/mo (or ESPN Unlimited for $29.99/mo) Features LaLiga, Bundesliga, FA Cup & NWSL Browse Offers 2,000+ Soccer Games Per Year Price: Starting at $8.99/mo Features Champions League, Serie A & Europa League Browse Offers Home of the Premier League Price: Starting at $10.99/mo 175+ Exclusive EPL matches per season Browse Offers Algeria Argentina Riyad Mahrez