Mohamed Tougai #4

Profile

Algeria did not announce their World Cup squad until 31 May, significantly later than most of the other participating nations. By then, there were few surprises left. Journalists stationed outside the airport had already photographed and filmed players arriving for camp, gradually piecing together Vladimir Petkovic's squad before the official announcement. The notable exception was Tougai. The defender had returned to Algeria several weeks earlier from Tunisia, where his club endured a disappointing campaign and failed to win the league title for only the second time in the past decade. His inclusion raised eyebrows, particularly as Petkovic has selected six centre-backs for the tournament. Among them, Tougai is arguably the least versatile. A traditional, no-nonsense defender, he prioritises winning physical duels and clearing danger over building attacks or playing line-breaking passes through midfield.

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