Algeria’s Bounedjah eyes redemption in optimistic AFCON 2023 campaign

Baghdad Bounedjah, the seasoned Algerian striker from Al-Sadd in Qatar, landed at the Sidi Moussa National Technical Center on Tuesday afternoon, radiating determination and confidence ahead of the upcoming AFCON tournament, set to kick off on January 15 with Algeria facing Angola.

Speaking to the press upon his arrival at Algiers International Airport, the 32-year-old forward highlighted the favorable conditions of the team’s preparation, aiming to steer clear of the disappointments encountered in the previous AFCON edition in 2021, where Algeria, the titleholders, faced an early elimination in the first round.

Bounedjah expressed optimism, stating, “This time, the conditions are much better. We will have around twenty days of preparation before the continental competition.

During the last AFCON in Cameroon, we did not have this opportunity, with several players affected by COVID.”

Continuing his assessment, Bounedjah emphasized the extended preparation period, allowing the coach ample time to work with a complete squad.

He noted the advantage for new players participating in their first African Cup of Nations, providing an opportunity to acclimatize to the climate, thanks to the training camp in Togo, whose conditions mirror those in Ivory Coast where the tournament will be held.

The striker, capped 62 times with 26 goals for the national team, expressed hope, saying, “Inshallah, we will have a good AFCON to bring smiles back to the Algerian people.”

Bounedjah also voiced support for his compatriot Youcef Belaïli, who has been preselected by Coach Djamel Belmadi and is anticipated to be part of the final AFCON squad.

“I think Belaïli’s return will be good for the national team. I have always said that Belaïli needs the national team, and Algeria needs Belaïli.”

With the Fennecs coach set to reveal the final squad by Sunday, Algerian fans are eagerly anticipating the inclusion of key players for a successful campaign in Ivory Coast.