 After the World Cup, Matmour didn't make another Algeria appearance until on 4 June 2011, where he started and played 45 minutes before coming off as substitute at half time, in a 4–0 loss against Morocco.On 3 May 2012, Matmour announced that he would be taking a break from international play to focus on his club career.This was later revealed over his falling out with Manager Vahid Halilhodžić.