AFCON 2015: Christian Gourcuff Praises Algeria’s Tactical Discipline After Quarter-Final Qualification
By BBC Sport Africa | February 5, 2015
Algeria’s French coach Christian Gourcuff can breathe a sigh of relief after guiding the Fennecs into the quarter-finals of the Africa Cup of Nations with a convincing 2-0 victory over Senegal.
The match was a fiercely physical encounter marked by intense duels and aerial battles, but Algeria’s tactical discipline proved decisive. Speaking after the game, Gourcuff reflected on the contrasting styles of the two teams.
“It was an extremely physical match, with a lot of impact, a battle with aerial balls and duels. We showed a lot of tactical discipline,” he said. “We caused them problems with our technique. It was a clash of styles. We have small, very technical players, while Senegal relies on their size and physique.”
Gourcuff tempered celebrations, reminding that Algeria is still far from champions despite the win. “We weren’t the worst in the world after the match against Ghana (0-1), and we’re not the champions now,” he added.
Algeria’s star attacker Sofiane Feghouli also praised the team’s maturity and adaptability. “Overall, the team showed maturity. They didn’t put themselves in danger,” Feghouli said. “We could have scored more goals; we caused them a lot of problems. We adapted well to their direct style of play, based on long balls.”
He further acknowledged the impact of the substitutes: “We must also congratulate the substitutes who brought in some new blood.”
Algeria’s victory not only secured their place in the next round but also triggered the resignation of Senegal’s coach Alain Giresse, signaling the end of a chapter for the Lions of Teranga.
The quarter-finals promise more intense battles as Algeria aims to build on this performance.
