Algeria’s local national team coach, Madjid Bougherra, has outlined his primary objective: securing qualification for the 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN).
Speaking at a press conference held at the Nelson Mandela Stadium in Baraki, Bougherra emphasized the importance of the upcoming double-header against Gambia in the CHAN qualifiers.
“Our goal is to qualify for CHAN and provide players for the senior team,” Bougherra stated, highlighting the dual purpose of the campaign: achieving tournament participation and nurturing talent for the national squad.
Bougherra acknowledged the collaborative efforts with the senior team’s coaching staff, noting that head coach Vladimir Petkovic maintains regular communication regarding the progress of local players.
“We are working in coordination with the first team staff, and Petkovic is constantly asking for news of the local players,” he said.
The coach also praised Petkovic’s role in motivating the local players, stating, “What the coach does is a source of motivation and pushes the locals to redouble their efforts.”
Regarding the upcoming matches against Gambia, Bougherra expressed respect for the opponents, cautioning against underestimating them.
“There are no longer any small teams in Africa, and the results of the Gambia senior team are proof of this,” he remarked.
“We know that the Gambian team has been training for about two weeks and will do everything possible to qualify.”
The Algerian squad is set to face Gambia in a two-legged qualifier, with the first match scheduled in Banjul between May 2 and 4, and the return leg in Algeria between May 9 and 11.
These fixtures are crucial for Algeria’s aspirations to participate in the CHAN finals, which have been rescheduled to take place from August 2 to 30, 2025, across Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.
Bougherra has called up a 28-man squad for a training camp in Annaba from March 17 to 24, aiming to fine-tune preparations ahead of the qualifiers
. The selection includes standout performers from the domestic league, such as Adil Boulbina of Paradou AC, the league’s top scorer with 15 goals, and Lahlou Akhrib of JS Kabylie.
Notably, the squad reflects a blend of experienced players and emerging talents, aligning with Bougherra’s strategy to rejuvenate the team.
The upcoming matches against Gambia represent a significant test for Algeria’s local national team, as they seek to secure a spot in the CHAN finals and continue the development of domestic football talent.
