The Head coach of the local Desert foxes of Algeria, Madjid Bougherra has voiced optimism ahead of the African Nations Championship opening game against Libya on Friday, January 13,2023.
This was during the pre-match press conference at the Nelson Mandela stadium in the country’s capital city, Algers, where the game will be staged.
Worries were raised following the team’s three consecutive draws in their pre-CHAN friendly encounters, last of which was against group C participant, Ghana.
Staying optimistic, Coach Bougherra said he is convinced the results of the preparatory game does not in any way determine how ready they are for the tournament.
“Test matches should not be compared with competitive matches. There are several factors that come into play for example, we have been preparing for this competition for a year and a half, for a while we played without fans. We are ready to face our opponent with all positive energy.’’ the coach said.
“It will be important to showcase a good game because the Algerians are sports fans and football lovers in particular. We will approach this match against Libya as a final”.
The 40-year-old gaffer will equally be counting on massive home support as booster to emerge victors in the very first game of the 7th edition of the CHAN on home soil.
Alongside him was team captain of Algeria’s local players Abdellaoui squad who equally shared almost the same optimistic views as his coach.
“We don’t have to hide. We are. We have the quality to deliver. In the team, some have experienced the excitement of major tournaments. Team spirit is our priority as at now as some have known each other since they were children. Without forgetting that we will play at home.”
“We rely on defensive solidity to project ourselves forward just like the opponent is hoping to use a counter-attacking game that they love like us,” Abdellaoui said during the press conference.
Madjid Bougherra and his boys will begin their group Stage campaign against 2014 champions, Libya then take on Ethiopia on January 17, before setting up a final group stage date with Mozambique four days later.
Algeria and her opponents are placed in group A of the Competition.
This is be Algeria’s chance to grab a first Chan title in just a second appearance in the tournament, with their best result being fourth place in 2011.
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