Tech
Published Jun 16, 2026Updated Jun 181
59%
Algeria Ranked 27th in FIFA World Rankings Ahead of 2026 World Cup Group J Challenge Against Argentina
Algeria is ranked 27th in the FIFA World Rankings heading into the 2026 World Cup, where they will compete in Group J against Argentina, Jordan, and Austria. Despite being underdogs against reigning champions Argentina and Lionel Messi, the Fennecs represent significant improvement from their historical low of 103rd in 2008 and their peak ranking of 15th in 2014.
Quick Facts
- Algeria ranked 27th in FIFA World Rankings
- Algeria competing in Group J at 2026 World Cup
- Algeria faces Argentina in opening match
- Algeria's ranking could change based on tournament performance
- Algeria squad features France-born players
Algeria enters the 2026 World Cup with a FIFA ranking of 27th, positioning them as underdogs in Group J against reigning world champions Argentina and Lionel Messi. The North African nation faces a formidable opener, as Argentina ranks among the top three teams globally. Despite this challenging draw, Algeria's current ranking reflects considerable improvement from their historical lows, offering optimism for their campaign in North America.
The Algerian national team, known as the Fennecs or Desert Warriors, boasts a roster heavily influenced by French talent, with more France-born players representing Algeria than any other national team at the tournament. Riyah Mahrez stands out as the squad's star player. Group J also includes Jordan and Austria, with Algeria positioned above only Jordan in the FIFA rankings among their group competitors.
Algeria's football trajectory demonstrates significant volatility. In 2014, following their best World Cup performance—reaching the round of 16 in Brazil before losing to Germany in extra time—the team climbed to their all-time high ranking of 15th. Conversely, the country experienced its lowest ranking of 103rd in 2008, with a year-end low of 86th in 1999, contributing to World Cup qualification failures in 1998 and 2002. Their current 27th-place ranking reflects substantial recovery from these depths.
The rankings remain dynamic, and Algeria's World Cup performance could alter their standing relative to other teams, potentially allowing them to surpass Ecuador depending on tournament results. The team is determined to challenge expectations and prove they belong among the world's elite, viewing the 2026 tournament as a potential beginning of a golden era for Algerian football.
Why This Matters
Algeria's 27th-place ranking in a group featuring reigning world champions Argentina reflects a decade of footballing progress that matters for North African sports ambitions. For regional fans and analysts, their trajectory from 103rd in 2008 to their current standing demonstrates how consistent investment in player development—particularly integrating France-born talent—can elevate a national program. The 2026 tournament offers Algeria a concrete opportunity to validate their recovery and potentially challenge Ecuador's ranking, signaling to emerging football nations that sustained improvement is achievable.
Timeline & Sources
Jan 1, 1999
WireAlgeria records year-end low FIFA ranking of 86th
Jan 1, 2008
WireAlgeria reaches lowest FIFA ranking of 103rd
Jan 1, 2014
WireAlgeria reaches Round of 16 at Brazil World Cup and climbs to all-time high FIFA ranking of 15th
Jan 1, 2026
WireAlgeria competes in Group J against Argentina, Jordan, and Austria at World Cup in North America