Algerian national team defender, Issa Mandi, emphasized the formidable challenge his team anticipates in the upcoming match against Burkina Faso.
The Algerian squad is set to face Burkina Faso on Saturday in the second round of the group stage.
Mandi, in remarks reported by the Algerian newspaper “El Nahar,” stated, “We are prepared to face Burkina Faso, accustomed to playing this type of match.”
“We have undergone numerous training sessions to acclimate to the conditions, especially adapting to the heat expected during the match against Burkina Faso,” he added.
The defender dismissed the notion of “small teams” in African football, citing Cape Verde’s victory over Ghana in the opening round as evidence.
Mandi emphasized, “There are no small teams in Africa, as proven by Cape Verde’s win against Ghana in the first round.”
Algeria secured a 1-1 draw against Angola in the initial match of Group Four, which also includes Burkina Faso and Mauritania.
As Algeria seeks its third continental title, having triumphed in 1990 on home soil and in 2019 in Egypt, Mandi underscores the competitive nature of the tournament and the high stakes for the participating teams.
The Algerian squad, under the guidance of their coach, faces a crucial test against Burkina Faso, aiming to secure victory and enhance their prospects in the quest for another African title.
