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Algeria and Spain in Talks Over Potential Friendly

Algeria and Spain in Talks Over Potential Friendly

Morocco World16-05-2025

The Algerian Football Federation (FAF) has opened discussions with Spain over the possibility of a friendly match between Algeria and Spain in 2026.
The talks took place on the sidelines of the 75th FIFA Congress, held in Asunción, Paraguay, where FAF President Walid Sadi met with Rafael Louzán Abal, President of the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF).
According to a statement released by the FAF, the two officials explored avenues of cooperation, including development projects across youth football, futsal, and the women's game.
However, the proposal to organise a senior international friendly has drawn the most attention.
The fixture, if confirmed, would form part of Algeria's preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America, should they qualify.
Spain, world champions in 2010 and recent winners of UEFA Euro 2024, would provide high-level opposition for the North African side.
The match would be a rare meeting between the two nations, who last faced each other at the 1986 World Cup in Mexico, where Spain won 3-0.
Algeria, now under Vladimir Petković's guidance, aims to return to the global stage after missing out on the 2022 edition in Qatar. The FAF has signalled its intent to arrange top-tier friendlies in the lead-up to the 2026 tournament.
While the fixture remains in the early stages of planning, both federations have expressed interest. No venue or date has been finalised, and logistical discussions are expected in the coming months. A match on Algerian soil is reportedly being considered, though a neutral venue or staging the game in Spain has not been ruled out. Tags: AlgeriaFIFA World CupSpain

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