The Algerian national team, known as the Greens, will start their 2019 Africa Cup of Nations journey tonight at 9 PM Cairo time against Kenya in Group C. A win is crucial for the Greens to build confidence and set a positive tone for the rest of the competition. Coach Djamel Belmadi emphasized the importance of a good start, especially with their next match against Senegal being equally vital to advancing to the next round.
Coach Djamel Belmadi is under pressure after taking over the team, and a strong performance against Kenya would greatly improve his team's psychological state. Belmadi is aware of his team's struggles in entering competitions, as seen in their recent CAN and World Cup participations. He stresses that the key to their CAN campaign lies in this first match against Kenya, a team eager to prove itself and make a comeback on the continental stage.
Belmadi recalled past matches, such as the 2010 loss to Malawi and the 2017 tournament, to emphasize the need for caution. He noted that there are no small teams left, citing Zimbabwe's recent match against Egypt as an example. With his experience as a professional, Belmadi knows that thinking about the final or the Senegal match prematurely would be a mistake, and securing a win against Kenya is essential.
A victory, regardless of the manner, would put the Greens in a strong position to advance to the next round and gain confidence before their upcoming challenging matches. The team will face a Kenyan side known for its defensive solidity, as seen in their recent friendly matches where they conceded few goals.
In terms of team lineup, the Greens are expected to field almost the same starting eleven that played against Mali in a friendly match a week ago in Doha, Qatar. The lineup is expected to include M'bolhi in goal, Atal and Farès as wing-backs, Mandi and Benlamri in the center, and Guedioura, Brahimi, and Feghouli in midfield. The attacking trio is likely to consist of Belaili, Mahrez, and Bounedjah.
The Algerian team will focus on offense against a Kenyan team renowned for its defensive strength. Coach Belmadi's strategy will be crucial in breaking down Kenya's defense and securing a much-needed win. The match is expected to be a challenging one for both teams, with the Greens aiming to make a statement and Kenya seeking to cause an upset.
The outcome of this match will have significant implications for the Greens' CAN 2019 campaign, and fans are eagerly anticipating the team's performance. With a strong lineup and a determined coach, Algeria is poised to make a positive impact in the tournament. The team's ability to adapt to the challenges posed by Kenya will be crucial in determining their success.
Key points
- Algeria's national team, the Greens, will begin their 2019 Africa Cup of Nations campaign against Kenya tonight at 9 PM Cairo time.
- Coach Djamel Belmadi stresses the importance of a good start in the CAN 2019 campaign, especially with their next match against Senegal being equally vital.
- The Algerian team is expected to field almost the same starting eleven that played against Mali in a friendly match a week ago in Doha, Qatar.
