After several years of instability, Algeria, under Djamel Belmadi, begins its 2019 Africa Cup of Nations campaign this Sunday against Kenya, approaching the tournament as an ambitious underdog. The Fennecs, aiming to secure their first AFCON title since 1990, face the dual challenge of overcoming lingering weaknesses while managing immense public expectations.
To shield his squad from pressure, Belmadi conducted training sessions behind closed doors and maintained a low profile in the media. The coach emphasized the importance of focus and composure, refusing to get carried away by external hype. “On paper, we are not the favorites. We were eliminated in the first round of the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations and we didn’t play in the last World Cup, which leads me to believe that we are just another team. Historically, Algeria is a footballing nation, that’s true. It’s up to us now to restore the prestige of Algerian football,” Belmadi told the CAF website. Despite this measured approach, he made clear that his intention against Kenya is to secure a victory and make a strong start to the competition.
Algeria enters the tournament with newfound stability after a turbulent period that saw four coaching changes in just two years. Under Belmadi’s guidance, the Fennecs appear cohesive, disciplined, and tactically organized. The squad also boasts exceptional individual talent capable of turning matches: Riyad Mahrez from Manchester City provides creativity and flair on the wing, Youcef Atal from Nice adds pace and defensive solidity, Andy Delort of Montpellier offers a physical and technical presence up front, and Yacine Brahimi can unlock defenses with skill and vision.
Group C is considered relatively open, giving Algeria the opportunity to assert itself early and build momentum. Belmadi’s strategy combines tactical discipline with the freedom for key players to influence the game, aiming to maximize both collective strength and individual brilliance. The Fennecs’ goal is clear: navigate the group stage successfully, restore the team’s prestige, and lay the foundation for a deep run in the tournament.
With confidence steadily returning and a balanced squad blending experience and talent, Algeria appears well-positioned to take advantage of a beatable group. The clash with Kenya marks the first step in a campaign that carries both the hopes of a footballing nation and the weight of expectation. By managing pressure, maintaining focus, and leveraging their skilled roster, the Fennecs aim to announce themselves as serious contenders for the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations.
