Aissa Mandi wants Algeria to be technically and tactically ready for World Cup
The Desert Foxes will return to the global stage for the fifth time, having qualified in 1982, 1986, 2010, and 2014. They have once qualified for the knockout rounds, reaching the round of 16 in 2014 before losing to Germany.
Algeria nearly qualified for the second round of the 1982 World Cup after beating both West Germany and Chile; however, a controversial match between West Germany and Austria ultimately eliminated the Algerians.
In 2014, Algeria qualified for the round of 16 for the first time. In the 2026 edition, Algeria have been drawn into Group J alongside defending champions Argentina, Austria, and Jordan.
Mandi, who is Algeria’s most-capped player, is confident of a good outing while insisting the Desert Foxes must prepare as a team to tackle this kind of competition.
‘Football always a team sport’
“I don’t wish to respond from an individual perspective. This isn’t about any one player, but more about the collective,” Mandi told FIFA.com.
“I think we need to be well prepared as a team to tackle this kind of competition – technically and tactically ready, and working closely with the coaching staff and as a unit.
“Football will always be a team sport. It’s only by working together that we’ll be able to answer these kinds of questions.”
On what has changed with Algeria in terms of mindset and experience, Mandi, who plays for Lille, said: “It all came down to the final minute (of the qualifiers) for the 2022 World Cup.
“We were within touching distance, it was such a close call (Cameroon knocked them out of the African play-offs on away goals in the depths of extra time), but that’s football for you.
“It was tough to take, but it was a learning experience. You have to recognise which mistakes you can’t afford to repeat so that you can grow stronger as a person. Above all, what makes the difference is being stronger as a team.”
Being one of the leaders in the Algeria squad, Mandi talked about his readiness to lead the side, with communication being on top of his agenda.
“It’s all about communication. I’ve had my fair share of experiences, just like everyone else. We should instill in them what it means to carry the hopes of our nation, and the responsibility that brings with it,” offered Mandi, who was one of the revelations of the Algerian team during the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.
“They need to play by the rules and maintain the highest standards when representing Algeria. As soon as you walk out onto the pitch, it must be a real source of pride.
“We’re fully committed to our people and our country. As the older heads of the group, it’s our duty and our responsibility (to make them understand that).”
World Cup greatest competition
On memories he shares after Algeria reached the Round of 16 in 2014, he said: “I remember it all!
“From start to finish – from qualifying back home in Algeria right through to our last game against Germany, when I think we gave a very good account of ourselves – we presented a positive image of the team and the country. After that, our homecoming was extraordinary.”
Mandi added on the FIFA World Cup: “It’s the greatest competition of all. It means representing your country on the global stage, so it’s something quite remarkable.
“I’ve been lucky enough to play in one World Cup, so a second will be amazing. It’s a dream I’ve had since childhood.”
On his record of most-capped player in Algeria, Mandi said with a smile: “I’ve obviously got more experience now.
“I’m older, of course, and I know just how much of a privilege it is to wear this shirt. It’s always something special, whether it’s your first cap or your last.
“It’s something magical, something to be cherished, and you still get a thrill when you step out onto the pitch to represent Algeria.”
Algeria's group-stage matches are scheduled to take place at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, and in the San Francisco Bay Area.
They will start their campaign against Argentina on June 16th, face Jordan in matchday two on June 22nd before winding up their group stage campaign against Austria on June 27th.