Algeria Prepare to Host Mali in Crucial 2015 AFCON Qualifier
Algeria will welcome Mali to the Mustapha Tchaker Stadium in Blida on September 10 for a pivotal Group B clash in the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers. The Algerian Fennecs began their campaign on a positive note with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Ethiopia in Addis Ababa last Saturday.
Goalkeeper Rais Mbolhi, who was instrumental in securing the win against Ethiopia, remains cautious ahead of the encounter with Mali. “We started these qualifiers well; it’s a great victory earned by the whole team. It will boost us for the upcoming matches and allow us to prepare calmly for Mali,” Mbolhi told lebuteur.com. “We know Mali well, we have played them before. Their players are very strong, and we are preparing thoroughly to perform well at home. In principle, there should be no problems on our own ground.”
The fixture pits the two heavyweights of Group B against each other in what promises to be a high-stakes contest. Christian Gourcuff, who recently succeeded the charismatic Vahid Halilhodzic as Algeria’s head coach, secured his first victory in charge during the Ethiopia game. The French tactician, who led Algeria to a historic round of 16 at the last World Cup, now faces pressure to confirm that success on home soil in front of a passionate Blida crowd.
The stakes are further heightened by the recent tragedy in Algerian football. The Algerian Football Federation (FAF) is still grappling with the death of Cameroonian striker Albert Ebossé, who passed away following an incident during a domestic league match at the end of August. The somber mood adds a layer of solemnity to the upcoming qualifier.
As Algeria prepare to host Mali, all eyes will be on this crucial showdown, with both teams eager to strengthen their bids for qualification to the continent’s premier football tournament.
