Algeria suffers its first withdrawal ahead of the World Cup

World Cup: First player out for Algeria

Algeria suffers its first withdrawal ahead of the World Cup

The final of the Qatari-Emirati Super Cup was supposed to be a historic night for Al-Sadd. Instead, it marked a dramatic turning point in the career of Youcef Atal. Forced off early after a non-contact injury, the Algerian fullback left the pitch before halftime, immediately raising concerns. Medical tests confirmed a complete rupture of the Achilles tendon—a serious injury that brings his season to an abrupt end.

A World Cup dream in serious jeopardy

This diagnosis means a long spell on the sidelines, estimated at several months, with a demanding rehabilitation process and, in most cases, surgery. Beyond the impact at club level, it is Atal's international prospects that are now clouded. His participation in the 2026 World Cup, set to take place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, now appears highly unlikely, given the tight recovery timeline required for such a demanding competition.

This new injury adds to a career already hampered by a string of physical setbacks. Just as he was seeking to regain momentum—especially after a tough 2025 AFCON—this latest blow raises fresh questions about his ability to return to top form and pushes the dream of the World Cup, which seemed within reach just months ago, even further away.