Lina Boussaha has underlined Algeria’s ambition to win the upcoming Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, with the midfielder delivering a rallying call ahead of the national team’s friendly against the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Speaking just hours before the match, Boussaha gave insight into the squad’s intensive preparations and the mindset within camp.
The Algerian side recently completed the first stage of their training in Oran, with a heavy focus on physical fitness.
“We laid the physical foundations, we worked a lot physically, it was a bit hard, a bit too hard,” Boussaha admitted with a laugh. “We did work in the gym, work on the pitch, a lot of tactics too—working on the playing styles that we will progress on during the friendly and official matches.”
The team has now moved to Algiers for the second phase of preparations, where tactical refinements will take centre stage before the tournament kicks off.
While the focus remains on readiness, Boussaha made it clear that the team’s aspirations go far beyond just competing.
“The main objective is to win the AFCON, there is no secret. Every team that participates wants to win,” she said. “It would be historic, but the main objective is to win.”
Despite her high hopes, Boussaha acknowledged the strength of the competition and the importance of a level-headed approach.
Algeria have been drawn into a tough group that includes Nigeria, Tunisia, and Botswana, but the midfielder is confident in her team’s ability to rise to the challenge.
“We really have to take it step by step,” she cautioned. “We have a strong group with Nigeria, Tunisia, Botswana… but we have nothing to envy the other teams.”
Boussaha also stressed the significance of unity and individual contribution within the squad.
“Algeria is not a small nation,” she said firmly, reflecting the team’s sense of pride and belief. “I hope to bring my personal touch, my qualities to the group. If everyone adds their individual touch while respecting the coach’s instructions, we have something to achieve.”
With confidence, cohesion, and clarity of purpose, Algeria’s women’s team head into the tournament not merely to participate, but to compete for the title.
Boussaha’s words captured the spirit of a side determined to make history.
