Vladimir Petkovic confident but cautious about Algeria’s big year

Vladimir Petkovic believes Algeria is ready to show a strong face at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco and then compete with ambition at the 2026 World Cup.

He said he is “very satisfied” to see Algeria at this World Cup, a tournament he describes as perfectly organised and packed with powerful, experienced teams, while acknowledging that the draw with Argentina, Austria and Jordan offers both major challenges and real opportunities to grow from game to game.

Petkovic openly admits Argentina remain the “big favourites” in the group, praises Austria’s structured, fast and intense style, and warns that surprise package Jordan must not be underestimated. Yet his immediate focus is the AFCON, where he refuses to promise titles but guarantees that Algeria “will show a good level and get good results”, insisting the priority is to play their football and try to win every match.

He highlights the group’s commitment and wants to avoid extremes in judgment, reminding everyone that the national-team door is open to all and that his job is to pick the best 23–26 players.

Petkovic downplays talk of Mahrez‑dependence, defending both the captain and criticized midfielder Zerrouki as key professionals, and finishes with a clear message: only unity between fans, media and team will allow Algeria to achieve great things on the African and world stage.