World Cup: Yacine Brahimi targets second appearance with Algeria

Veteran Algerian forward Yacine Brahimi is eyeing a second FIFA World Cup appearance with the Fennecs in Mexico, Canada, and the USA next month.

Having been absent from the Algerian national team for nearly two years, Brahimi still dreams of participating in the 2026 World Cup.

The Al-Gharafa attacking midfielder remains optimistic, having made the 54-man provisional squad named by coach Vladimir Petkovic.

The former FC Porto attacking midfielder’s goal is to secure a second World Cup appearance with the two-time African champions, following the 2014 edition in Brazil.

Brahimi has earned 72 caps and scored 15 goals for Algeria.

“I’ll be glued to my TV for the squad announcement. This is my last chance to play in a World Cup, after 2014.

“Despite the competition, I feel ready. If I’m not selected, I’ll be supporting my country, as always.

“If I’m called up, it would be a dream come true. I remain optimistic,” he told Ennahar TV.

At 36 years old, Brahimi still has firepower left in his tank as he continues to shine at the club level in Qatar, with 9 goals and 14 assists in 26 appearances for Al-Gharafa.

The 72-time capped player was a member of Algeria’s squad that lifted the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt, where they defeated Senegal 1-0 in the final.

With 15 international career goals, he featured in the 2015, 2017, 2019, and 2021 Africa Cup of Nations.

Algeria, who reached the last 16 at the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil, are paired in Group J alongside Argentina, Austria, and Jordan.