Ryad Boudebouz, the attacking midfielder for FC Sochaux, emphasized the need for the Algerian national team to focus on defensive maturity as they prepare for the 2014 World Cup qualifiers. Boudebouz expressed the view that acquiring a certain defensive rigor is essential for the team to compete with strong opponents like Ivory Coast. He noted that Algeria is currently in a phase of rebuilding and seeking its identity under coach Vahid Halilhodžić. Despite not being considered favorites for the Africa Cup of Nations (CAN), Boudebouz highlighted the talent within the Algerian team and the quality of play established by the coach. The team’s attention is now directed toward the World Cup qualifiers, with a match against Benin scheduled for March 26.
ALGERIA/ RYAD BOUDEBOUZ: “WE MUST ACQUIRE A CERTAIN DEFENSIVE RIGOR”
