Algeria's national side faces an unexpected turn after the Algerian Football Federation office met, with president Walid Sadi forming a technical panel to assess Swiss coach Vladimir Petkovic's performance. The move follows a 2-0 loss to Switzerland on July 3, 2026, adding another layer of complexity after the team's exit from the 2026 World Cup finals.

What happened at Sadi's meeting?

During a several‑hour session on Saturday, the federation office failed to approve Petkovic's dismissal despite mounting pressure following the latest defeat. Instead, Sadi announced the creation of a technical committee composed of local experts to deliver a final recommendation. The step shows the administration's hesitation to take a drastic action, perhaps aiming to buy time before any costly legal move.

Why opt for a technical committee instead of an immediate sacking?

The decision suggests Sadi prefers to delay a definitive move while scouting a replacement at minimal expense. Notably, less than a month ago he signed an extension for Petkovic until summer 2028 with a salary raise, without consulting any advisors. Now, after two consecutive losses (LL) within the last five matches (1W-2D-2L), the pressure mounts to justify that extension.

How will this affect the team's future in upcoming qualifiers?

If the committee recommends keeping Petkovic, Sadi may struggle to convince players and fans to accept a tactical plan that has yet to deliver results. Conversely, a swift dismissal could leave a leadership vacuum at a critical moment, especially with Africa's qualifying schedule tightening. The current form (LLDDW) puts the side in a weak position against group rivals.

What are the next steps for the federation and the team?

The committee is expected to release its report within two weeks, possibly naming another foreign coach as a replacement. Meanwhile, the team continues preparing for the next match against Tunisia, aiming to break the losing streak. The lingering question is whether Sadi will keep backing Petkovic or yield to growing public pressure.

Last result: Switzerland 2-0 Algeria (2026-07-03). Recent form: 1W-2D-2L (most recent matches are two losses).