Former Algeria coach Rabah Madjer has shared his insights on the challenges the Fennecs may face at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations, emphasizing the impact of weather conditions on performance. As Djamel Belmadi and his squad prepare to open their campaign against Kenya this Sunday at 8 PM GMT, Madjer highlighted the need for careful adaptation to the climate, noting that the tournament’s timing in June presents unique difficulties. “We must not forget that this AFCON will take place for the first time in June. The climate will be very hot. And the humidity level will be very high. This parameter must be taken into consideration since it does not favor the Maghreb teams,” Madjer stated during a discussion on the MBC Masr sports program.
Madjer’s comments underline the historical struggle of North African teams in adapting to conditions outside their usual environment. He pointed out that Maghreb sides have often faced challenges when competing in regions with hotter and more humid climates, unlike their sub-Saharan counterparts who are generally better acclimated. This environmental factor, he stressed, can significantly influence performance, particularly in a tournament structured for high intensity and rapid succession of matches. Consequently, preparation and physical conditioning are paramount if Algeria aims to progress deep into the competition.
In addition to the climate, Madjer noted the expanded format of the 2019 AFCON, which features 24 teams for the first time. This change increases the tournament’s intensity and requires teams to be both tactically and physically ready for a larger number of matches and potential group-stage scenarios. He emphasized that Maghreb teams, including Algeria, must prioritize endurance and fitness training to cope with both the schedule and the environmental challenges. “I think the Maghreb teams will have to prepare well for this AFCON, especially in terms of their physical conditioning,” he said, highlighting that superior preparation could be a deciding factor in the outcome of matches.
The effects of the hot June weather are already being felt by players across the competition. Samuel Kalu of Nigeria, among others, has reportedly struggled with the conditions, illustrating the tangible impact of temperature and humidity on performance. Such environmental factors require teams to adapt their strategies, manage player rotation carefully, and ensure hydration and recovery protocols are strictly followed to maintain peak performance levels throughout the tournament.
Madjer’s warnings serve as a timely reminder of the additional hurdles Algeria faces beyond tactical challenges and opponents. Success in the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations will not only depend on technical skill and team cohesion but also on the ability to withstand and adjust to the extreme conditions imposed by a mid-summer tournament in Egypt. For Djamel Belmadi and his players, careful planning, physical preparation, and strategic acclimatization will be critical in turning Algeria’s ambitions into tangible results on the field.
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