ALGERIA AIMS HIGH FOR CAN 2015: GOURCUFF TARGETS VICTORY IN TOUGH GROUP C
After a brilliant 2014 World Cup and a strong showing in the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, Algeria enters the continental tournament as one of the clear favorites. Drawn into Group C, the so-called “Group of Death” with South Africa, Ghana, and Senegal, the Fennecs are confident of going far in Equatorial Guinea.
At a recent press conference, head coach Christian Gourcuff made his ambitions clear: “We want to win all our matches.” The French tactician confirmed that the core of his squad is already established and will not see major changes unless injuries occur: “There will be no surprises. The core of the team is known and, barring force majeure, it is not likely to be shaken up.”
Nevertheless, he acknowledged that “some places are still up for grabs. You just have to earn them.” Gourcuff also announced that Algeria’s training camp will begin on January 2 in Sidi Moussa, culminating with a single friendly match against Tunisia on January 11, before flying out to Equatorial Guinea on January 15.
The coach also stood firm on his tactical approach: “We play to make the game, we do not adapt to the opponent,” confirming that his preferred formation remains the 4-4-2, with Yacine Brahimi used in an advanced attacking role.
With a talented squad and growing continental stature, Algeria is no longer a dark horse—they are a team aiming for AFCON glory.
