AFCON 2015: Algeria Fall to Mali but Remain Confident Ahead of Finals
Algeria’s impressive qualifying run came to an end with a 2-0 defeat to Mali on the final day of the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. It was the Fennecs’ first loss under coach Christian Gourcuff, who had led them to five straight victories prior to this match. Despite the setback, Algeria had already secured qualification and remain one of the tournament’s most feared contenders.
The match, played under testing conditions in Bamako, saw Mali take advantage of a reshuffled Algerian lineup. Gourcuff, seeking to rotate his squad, admitted after the game that the changes disrupted the team’s rhythm. “We made changes. But up front with Soudani and Slimani, there was a lack of cohesion, perhaps the heat. We simply missed our match, especially in the first half,” he acknowledged.
While the defeat put a damper on an otherwise strong campaign, Gourcuff took full responsibility. “I take responsibility, I made changes to the squad. We weren’t able to hold our own against this Malian team. If I hadn’t made changes, people would have asked why I hadn’t made changes,” the French coach added, pointing to the pressure and the second goal that made any comeback unlikely.
Despite the loss, Gourcuff remains calm about Algeria’s prospects at the tournament. When asked about potential opponents in the group stage draw, he responded: “I have no preference. In my opinion, the problem does not arise. To win the African Cup, you have to beat the best on the way.”
Reflecting on the qualifiers, Gourcuff remained upbeat. “First of all, a quick qualification, even if this inconsequential defeat spoils the party. Progress has been made in every area of the game. Now we just have to prepare to face the final phase.”
Algeria will enter the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations as one of the favourites, aiming to convert their dominant qualifying form into a continental triumph.
