Expectation was running high for one of the most intriguing matchups of the opening round of group stage matches. In Kansas City, defending champion Argentina faced an Algeria side making their first World appearance since Brazil 2014.

Lionel Messi and the Albiceleste need no introduction for American fans, but Algeria is bringing several names and storylines that will be new to much of the U.S. audience.

And none draws more attention than Luca Zidane — yes, that Zidane. The Granada CF goalkeeper, son of French legend Zinedine Zidane, has been making headlines not just because of his last name, but because of a striking piece of equipment he’s required to wear every time he steps on the field: a protective face mask.

Why is Luca Zidane wearing a protective mask?

It all dates back to the LaLiga HyperMotion game between Granada and Almería at Los Carmenes on April 26.

In the final moments of the game and with 90 minutes up, Luca suffered a brutal collision that left him with a fractured chin and jaw. The diagnosis was immediate and serious: broken bones, surgery, and the very real possibility that he might miss the World Cup entirely.

In the end, only the first two parts of that prognosis came true. The third — missing the tournament — did not. After nearly two months of recovery and conditioning, Zidane was declared fit to play for Algeria. The only lingering requirement is the rigid protective mask that covers much of his face but still allows him to compete normally.

A rising figure for Algeria

Algeria’s opener against Argentina was Luca’s eighth appearance for the senior side. Since making his debut in the World Cup qualifier against Uganda last October, his numbers have been impressive: six goals conceded and five clean sheets in those appearances. Now, twenty years after the Zidane name last echoed through a World Cup, it returns — this time in Algeria’s colors.

Algeria continue their World Cup adventure with a goalkeeper whose story blends legacy, resilience, and a bit of mystery behind that mask. He is the second member of the family to have played at a World Cup - an achievement his famous father will be hugely proud of.

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