Vladimir Petkovic has called on his Algeria squad to maintain their strong form as they prepare to face Sweden in a high-profile international friendly in Stockholm.
Speaking at a press conference alongside team captain Riyad Mahrez, the Algerian head coach emphasized the importance of building on recent successes, just days after Algeria secured a 2-0 win over Rwanda in Constantine.
The friendly against Sweden, a team currently in a period of transition, presents an important test for Petkovic’s evolving side.
“It’s an important match. We’re enjoying a good spell, and we want to keep the momentum going,” Petkovic told journalists, expressing confidence in his players while acknowledging the challenges ahead.
The encounter with Sweden, who are rebuilding under new direction, offers a different kind of examination for the North African side.
Petkovic sees it as an opportunity to measure his team’s adaptability and resilience against a European opponent known for its high-pressing game.
“Sweden are going through a reconstruction phase,” he said. “They press aggressively and will offer a different kind of challenge. It’s exactly the sort of test we need right now.”
Since taking charge of the Algerian national team, the Swiss-Bosnian coach has made it clear that his tenure would be marked by experimentation and inclusivity.
Petkovic reiterated that stance on the eve of the Sweden clash, stating that competition within the squad remains open and fierce.
“From the beginning, I’ve said the door is open to all players,” he explained. “I’ve deliberately put myself in difficult situations with my selections.
It’s part of the process. Time will ultimately reveal which players will stay and form part of the group moving forward.”
With the September window looming large—when Algeria will face more decisive fixtures—Petkovic hinted that the current phase of experimentation is nearing its conclusion.
He intends to solidify his core squad in the coming months, using these friendlies to fine-tune his selection.
“Starting from September, the group will become tighter again,” he noted. “These matches now are crucial for understanding which players are truly ready to be part of the project.”
Captain Riyad Mahrez echoed his coach’s sentiments, expressing satisfaction with the team’s recent performances while underlining the importance of remaining focused and committed.
“We’ve had a good result against Rwanda, and the spirit in the camp is strong,” Mahrez said. “But these friendlies are not just warm-ups—they are part of a bigger plan. We want to keep improving.”
Algeria’s trip to Sweden marks another step in their journey under Petkovic’s leadership, with both coach and players eager to prove that recent improvements are no coincidence.
With a blend of experienced internationals and fresh faces vying for long-term roles, the friendly offers another chance to refine the team’s identity and style ahead of more competitive fixtures later in the year.
As the national team continues its preparation phase, Petkovic’s message remains consistent: performance now will determine places in the future.
