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Football fans across Africa will turn their attention to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, this Thursday, November 13, 2025, as Algeria and Zimbabwe face off in a high-profile international friendly at the Prince Abdullah Al-Faisal Stadium. The game kicks off at 5:30 p.m. Algerian time (7:30 p.m. Mecca time) and forms part of Algeria’s November training camp ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations 2025 in Morocco.
A Test of Depth for the Desert Foxes
For Vladimir Petković and his Algerian squad, this friendly provides a crucial opportunity to assess player form and tactical readiness before heading into competitive action. Petković, known for his analytical approach and structured style, has been gradually shaping the team’s identity since taking charge.
Algeria’s journey toward AFCON 2025 has been filled with both promise and challenges. Despite a talented roster, the team has occasionally struggled with consistency, especially in transitions and defensive organization. This friendly against Zimbabwe will allow the coach to fine-tune those aspects and observe how new players adapt to the system.
Veterans such as Riyad Mahrez and Islam Slimani bring leadership and experience, while younger stars like Aït-Nouri, Zerrouki, and Aouar are expected to shoulder more responsibility. Petković has also hinted that he may test alternative attacking setups to ensure the team can adapt against diverse opponents in Morocco.
Zimbabwe’s Rebuilding Phase
On the opposite side, Zimbabwe are entering a new era. After administrative challenges and a lack of international fixtures in recent years, the Warriors are determined to rebuild their footballing identity.
Head coach Baltemar Brito is using this match to evaluate his squad’s chemistry and resilience against one of the continent’s elite teams. Zimbabwe’s lineup includes experienced players like Marvelous Nakamba and Tino Kadewere, alongside younger talents eager to make their mark.
While the team lacks Algeria’s depth, they make up for it with work ethic and physical strength. Expect Zimbabwe to adopt a disciplined defensive shape, relying on quick counterattacks and set-piece opportunities to trouble the Algerian defense.
Match Expectations
The encounter promises a competitive but respectful contest. Algeria are likely to control possession, using their midfielders’ creativity to unlock Zimbabwe’s compact lines. However, the Warriors’ determination could test the Desert Foxes’ defensive focus, particularly in transitions.
With AFCON 2025 fast approaching, Petković’s main objective will be to evaluate tactical cohesion and player adaptability rather than simply chasing the scoreline. He may use all available substitutions to test different systems and observe combinations that could be vital during the tournament.
The Bigger Picture
For Algeria, this match is part of a broader vision — regaining continental dominance after a disappointing AFCON 2023. For Zimbabwe, it’s a symbolic return to the African stage, proving that they can compete again with top-tier nations.
Fans in Jeddah and across Africa can expect an entertaining, open game filled with energy and experimentation. Both teams have everything to gain and little to lose.
Prediction
Algeria’s technical quality and experience should give them the edge, but Zimbabwe’s fighting spirit might produce surprises.
Predicted Score: Algeria 3–1 Zimbabwe.