Pre-World Cup 2026 friendlies: Netherlands-Algeria, likely lineups

Rotterdam’s de Kuip stadium is preparing to host a top-notch friendly between Ronald Koeman’s Netherlands and Vladimir Petkovic’s Algeria, both ready for the 2026 World Cup, on Wednesday evening at 8:45 p.m. The Oranje arrive at the fixture undefeated for a year and strong from first place in the qualifying round ahead of Poland; the only illustrious absentee is de Vrij. By contrast, the Desert Foxes return to the final stage of a World Cup after 12 years and are seeking redemption after a bitter elimination in the African Cup of Nations quarterfinals at the hands of Nigeria. For the challenge, the former Lazio coach has surprised everyone by excluding pillars such as Atal, Bennacer and Bounedjah to make room for newcomers Ghedjemis and Belghali.

Koeman opts for a four-man defense, with the central pair formed by van Hecke and van Dijk, while Dumfries and Hato will man the side lanes. Bart Verbruggen is in goal. The midfield sees Gravenberch and Timber while the trio of Koopmeiners, Reijnders and Gakpo will act in the three-quarter behind the only forward Malen.

Petkovic responds with a three-man defense and a denser midfield. Mastil will defend the posts, protected by a defensive line consisting of Madi, Belaid and Chergui. In midfield, Belghali and Ait-Nouri will push on the flanks, while Aouar and Chaibi will manage the pace in the middle of the field. On the three-quarter, the flair of Amoura and Maza will be tasked with inventing and triggering the offensive terminal Gouiri.

Probable lineups
Holland (4-2-3-1): Verbruggen; Dumfries, Van Hecke, Van Dijk, Hato; Gravenberch, Timber; Koopmeiners, Reijnders, Gakpo; Malen. All. Koeman
Algeria (3-4-2-1): Mastil; Madi, Belaid, Chergui; Belghali, Aouar, Chaibi, Ait-Nouri; Amoura, Maza; Gouiri. All. Petkovic