Zidane takes a blow to the head as Algeria hold their breath with 50 days to go
Zidane gave the whole of Algeria a scare on Sunday. In the Spanish second division clash between Granada and Almeria, Luca Zidane was forced off around the 87th minute after a nasty collision from a corner. Dazed, he lasted until the 90th before being replaced by Ander Astralaga. The early images were enough to alarm Algerian fans, but updates from Spain soon after quickly eased the panic.
Granada boss Jose Rojo Pacheta spoke straight after the final whistle to clear things up. The goalkeeper took a blow to the head after the late clash, but he was able to leave the pitch under his own steam, with no need for a stretcher. He was then taken to hospital for monitoring and further tests, in line with the standard medical protocol used when concussion is suspected.
At this stage, there is nothing to suggest Luca Zidane has suffered a serious injury. The test results will show how long he may be out, but the worst-case scenario has clearly been avoided. Algeria can breathe again, at least for now, while they wait for the final medical all-clear.
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Zidane more important than ever in a goalkeeper pool already thinned out
Even a minor injury comes at a tense moment for Algeria. In 50 days, the Fennecs open their World Cup 2026 campaign against Argentina. And in goal, the situation was already looking shaky before this latest scare. The absences of Mandrea and Mastil have left the competition behind Zidane, who has already been confirmed as Vladimir Petkovic’s first-choice keeper for the tournament, badly reduced.
Losing Zinedine’s son at this stage of the build-up would have been a major blow for a side hoping to get beyond the group stage. Despite recent criticism of his level in Algeria, Luca Zidane has won back the trust of the coaching staff and established himself as a key part of Petkovic’s plans. He was particularly influential at the last AFCON before the painful exit against Nigeria.
Oussama Benbot, the USM Alger goalkeeper, has already spoken publicly about a possible return from international retirement to help out the national side. But Petkovic’s pecking order is still clear in his mind: Zidane is the man for the job. Everyone in the camp will be hoping to have the keeper back fit and firing for the final stretch before the World Cup.
Zidane, carrying a famous name and chasing his own World Cup moment
Beyond the medical worry, this episode underlines just how central Luca Zidane has become for the Fennecs. As Zinedine’s son, he carries a surname that draws as much attention as it does criticism. Some accuse him of getting special treatment, while others point to his steady progress since joining the national set-up. The reality is simple enough: Petkovic trusts him, and the staff do not see a World Cup without him between the posts.
Following in his father’s footsteps is no easy task, but Luca Zidane appears to have found his rhythm. At Granada, he has been playing regularly since 2024, and his displays in MLS and La Liga make a strong case for him to keep the gloves for the Fennecs. The World Cup 2026 offers him a rare chance to write his own story, away from his father’s shadow.
Algerian supporters can start breathing again. Zidane’s injury does not appear to be serious, and the medical green light should come in the next few days. With 50 days to go before a World Cup that is shaping up to be explosive for Algeria, it’s the kind of update they needed most.
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