Ahead of the crucial encounter against Mauritania in the final group stage match of the Africa Cup of Nations, Algeria’s coach Djamel Belmadi analyzed the performance, particularly the late equalizer against Burkina Faso, emphasizing his confidence in the team’s ability to qualify.
The Desert Foxes secured a 2-2 draw in the second round against Burkina Faso, with a powerful header by Baghdad Bounedjah in the dying minutes.
During the press conference, Belmadi stated, “Throughout the match, the Burkinabe national team did not pose a significant threat to us compared to the opportunities we created.”
“I have confidence in our players to secure qualification, especially after their performance today, whether those who started or the substitutes,” he added.
Belmadi underscored, “I have no doubt about the capabilities of our players. These are the kinds of matches we must play to reach advanced stages.”
“We aimed to secure at least a draw to preserve our chances and focus on the final match.
We have a decisive encounter against Mauritania, and we must win it,” he continued.
Regarding Riyad Mahrez, the captain, Belmadi acknowledged his importance, stating, “Mahrez, as the captain, has given his best in both matches.
No player in the lineup dictates their play style in the national team.”
Burkina Faso’s team has already secured a spot in the Round of 16, leading the group with 4 points.
Algeria is in second place with 2 points, followed by Angola with 1 point, and Mauritania without any points.
Algeria’s national team has not lost in the last 23 matches in which Baghdad Bounedjah scored, winning 19 and drawing 4.
Bounedjah, the striker for Qatari club Al-Sadd, has become the first Algerian player to surpass the age of 30 and score 3 goals in a single edition of the Africa Cup of Nations.
Algeria will face Mauritania next Tuesday to determine their qualification for the knockout stages.
