Algeria Kicks Off 2019 AFCON Preparations with Eyes on the Trophy
The Algerian national team, the Fennecs, has officially begun its preparations for the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt, aiming to end a 29-year wait since their last AFCON triumph on home soil in 1990.
Since Monday, June 3rd, coach Djamel Belmadi and his squad have been in camp at Sidi Moussa, with players arriving in high spirits and fully focused on the tournament.
Among them is Sofiane Feghouli, who enjoyed a stellar season with Galatasaray, winning both the Turkish league and cup. Feghouli expressed his determination to succeed with Algeria:
“I will be participating in the AFCON with Algeria. I spent a few days on holiday with my family, and now I will start working in preparation for the next AFCON. It is a very important competition for my country. I had two fantastic years with Galatasaray, and it would be wonderful if we managed to win the AFCON. I feel that the hearts of the Galatasaray fans will be with me during the next AFCON,” he told Hürriyet.
As part of their build-up, the Fennecs will play two friendly matches: against Burundi on June 11 and Mali on June 16.
At the tournament, Algeria will compete in Group C alongside Senegal, Kenya, and Tanzania. They will kick off their campaign against Kenya on June 23, before facing Senegal on June 27, and concluding the group stage against Tanzania on July 1.
With a mix of experienced leaders like Riyad Mahrez and emerging talent, Algeria arrives in Egypt with the ambition of going all the way and securing their second Africa Cup of Nations title.
