Former Algeria international and current analyst Abdelmalek Ben Zekri has made a bold statement ahead of the national team’s upcoming friendly against Jordan. Speaking in a television interview, Ben Zekri declared that if Algeria fails to beat Jordan on March 27, 2026, the entire football community in the country should consider quitting the sport.
“If Algeria cannot defeat Jordan at home, then we should all retire from football,” Ben Zekri said. “There is no excuse. We have better players, a stronger league, and more experience. Jordan is a good team, but we are Algeria.”
The match, scheduled for March 27, 2026, at the Nelson Mandela Stadium in Algiers, is part of Algeria’s preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. Ben Zekri’s comments come after a mixed run of results for the Desert Foxes, who have struggled to find consistency under head coach Vladimir Petkovic.
Algeria last faced Jordan in a friendly in 2022, winning 2-0. However, Ben Zekri insists that past results mean nothing. “What matters is what happens on the pitch on March 27. If we don’t win, it means we have no ambition, no pride, and no future in football,” he added.
The former striker, who scored 12 goals for Algeria between 2001 and 2010, also criticised the team’s recent performances. “We have seen too many weak displays. The players must understand that wearing the Algeria shirt is a responsibility. You cannot just show up and expect to win.”
Jordan, meanwhile, will be looking to cause an upset. The Jordanian national team has improved significantly in recent years, reaching the Asian Cup quarter-finals in 2023 and 2024. Their coach, Hussein Ammouta, has built a disciplined and organised side.
Ben Zekri’s comments have sparked debate among Algerian fans and pundits. Some agree with his tough stance, while others believe it is too harsh. “I understand his frustration, but saying we should quit football is extreme,” said former Algeria midfielder Yazid Mansouri. “We need to support the team, not put more pressure on them.”
The match on March 27, 2026, will be a key test for Petkovic’s side. A win would boost morale ahead of the World Cup qualifiers. A loss or draw, however, could lead to more criticism and questions about the team’s direction.
Ben Zekri remains unapologetic. “I love Algeria more than anything. That is why I speak the truth. If we cannot beat Jordan, then we do not deserve to play football at this level.”
