World Cup Build-Up: Algeria sent a strong message ahead of the 2026 tournament, stunning the Netherlands 1-0 in Rotterdam with Hadj Moussa’s 86th-minute strike, while goalkeeper Luca Zidane stood out with key saves. Tournament Logistics: Algeria’s squad is set to base in Lawrence, Kansas, with Group J openers against Argentina on June 16 and another match in Kansas City vs Austria on June 27. Energy Infrastructure: Algeria has launched construction of its section of the Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline, a 4,128-km project linking Nigeria and Niger to Algeria’s Mediterranean coast for gas exports to Europe. Politics & Diplomacy: Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Al Shibani arrived in Algiers for an ice-breaking visit aimed at strengthening ties, including discussions on extremists linked to al-Qaeda. Justice Update: Algeria’s Supreme Court cleared the way for a possible presidential pardon for detained French journalist Christophe Gleizes after rejecting prosecutors’ appeal, leaving his fate with President Tebboune. Domestic Industry: Algeria’s ADC says it will start feasibility studies on green hydrogen and brine utilisation, building on desalination pilot work. Regional Politics: Algeria’s upcoming parliamentary elections are widely seen as unlikely to bring real change, with low expectations for voter turnout.