The Algeria national football team is playing friendly matches with the youth of Lawrence, Kansas, before facing Argentina in the 2026 World Cup. This warm reception of the Algerian team in Lawrence reflects the team's belonging to the small city. 500 people gathered at the airport to welcome the Algerian team before their participation in the World Cup. Riyad Mahrez, a player for Al Ahli Saudi FC, commented: «We thank the city's residents for this warm welcome and reception». The Algerian team remains one of four teams based in Kansas City, which is 40 miles west of the city. The Algerian players played basketball games at Allen Fieldhouse, the historic stadium of the Jayhawks team, and also practiced throwing footballs at Memorial Stadium. Vladimir Petkovic, the coach of Algeria, commented: «I was very impressed by the city's residents' reception, and I was proud to see a large number of them attend our first training session, wearing Algerian jerseys and symbols». This reception indicates the Algerian team's belonging to the small city in Kansas.