Algerian star and reigning right winger
Algeria arrives at the World Cup as an unproven commodity after an Africa Cup of Nations exit and a shaky qualifying build. Petkovic leans on technical quality, but gaps in defense persist. Riyad Mahrez remains the talisman, while uncertainty over selection and form clouds the squad’s prospects.
Switzerland has beaten Algeria 2-0 in a World Cup knockout match. Breel Embolo opened in the 10th minute after a Johan Manzambi run; Dan Ndoye doubled the lead within a minute of the second half after an Algerian clearance. Algeria pressed and made attacking changes but failed to score, ending their tournament while Switzerland advances to the last 16.
The World Cup knockouts are underway. France and Argentina dominate the top spots, Spain rises after a strong group run, and Brazil; England; and Portugal face early scrutiny as the window to the final narrows.
Portugal defeats Croatia 2-1 in a dramatic World Cup clash, with Gonçalo Ramos' stoppage-time header sealing progress to the last 16 as VAR denies a late Croatian equaliser and Cristiano Ronaldo features in what could be his World Cup swan song.
Switzerland has defeated Algeria 2-0 to reach the World Cup knockout stage, with Johan Manzambi setting up Breel Embolo for the opener and Dan Ndoye adding a second early in the second half. Algeria pressed but could not convert chances as Switzerland controlled proceedings and will face Colombia or Ghana next.