Former Algerian international Samir Zaoui has unequivocally dismissed Algeria from contention in the upcoming AFCON 2023, citing the team’s ongoing evolution and need for time to solidify their foundation.
Speaking exclusively to “Winwin,” the 47-year-old ex-defender, with 24 caps to his name, conveyed a realistic assessment of Algeria’s prospects in the continental tournament.
Zaoui emphasized the transformative phase the team is undergoing, asserting that the Fennecs are not yet equipped to emerge triumphant in the African Cup of Nations.
“The Algerian national team is not ready to win the African Cup of Nations and is not considered a candidate for the title, compared to what we see with other teams.
According to my belief, the national team is under construction because players have left and others have come,” declared Samir Zaoui, offering a nuanced perspective on the current state of Algerian football.
These sentiments echo those expressed by Djamel Belmadi, Algeria’s national team coach, during a press conference before the team’s departure to Togo for training.
Belmadi acknowledged that conventional favorites often include nations such as Egypt, Senegal, Morocco, Tunisia, Nigeria, and Ivory Coast, with the added spotlight on the latter playing on home turf.
Djamel Belmadi, recognizing the recent challenges faced by Algeria, asserted, “We did not qualify for the World Cup, we came out in the 1st round of the last AFCON (2021), and you have repeated it to me enough, so, de facto, we are not favorites.”
Zaoui’s and Belmadi’s collective acknowledgment of the transitional phase for Algeria sheds light on a pragmatic approach, emphasizing patience and a focus on the team’s ongoing development rather than premature expectations of tournament success.
As the AFCON 2023 unfolds, Algeria’s journey will be closely watched, with a keen eye on the long-term vision for the Fennecs.
