Algerian national football team coach Djamel Belmadi expressed his ambition to win the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt during a press conference at the Centre technique national de Sidi Moussa. Belmadi stated that the team's objective is to win the trophy, dismissing the notion that the tournament is a transition phase. He emphasized that the team has the right to aim high and that the players' recent individual successes will contribute to their momentum.
The Algerian team will begin their preparation on June 7 at the Centre technique national de Sidi Moussa before departing for Doha, Qatar on June 8. In Qatar, they will play two friendly matches against Burundi on June 11 and Mali on June 16. The team will then travel to Cairo on June 18 on a special flight. Belmadi explained that Qatar was chosen for its similar climate to Egypt, allowing the team to acclimate to the conditions they will face during the tournament.
Belmadi discussed his selection of players, including Islam Slimani, who has not played for Fenerbahçe in Turkey for several months due to a lack of competitiveness. Belmadi defended his decision, stating that Slimani has valuable experience and has been subject to unfair criticism. He also addressed the case of Faouzi Ghoulam, who requested to be excused from the tournament, and Nabil Bentaleb, who will undergo surgery.
Belmadi also discussed the absence of certain players, including Andy Delort, who was unable to join the team due to administrative issues related to his change of nationality. Belmadi emphasized that he prefers to work with a cohesive group of 23 players rather than a larger squad that may lead to eliminations and affect team morale.
The Algerian coach highlighted the challenges posed by the Egyptian climate, with temperatures reaching 40 degrees Celsius. He stressed the importance of preparing specifically for these conditions and the benefits of the team's training camp in Qatar. Belmadi also acknowledged the strength of the teams in Algeria's group, including Kenya, Senegal, and Tanzania.
Algeria will face Kenya on June 23, Senegal on June 27, and Tanzania on July 1 in the group stage of the tournament. Belmadi emphasized the need to prepare thoroughly for each match, warning against underestimating any opponent. He cited the example of Kenya, Algeria's first opponent, as a team that should not be taken lightly.
Belmadi expressed his satisfaction with the team's squad, noting that he has given opportunities to young players such as Hichem Boudaoui and Ismael Bennacer. However, he acknowledged that not all positions have been filled with young players, as the team prioritizes its short-term objective of performing well in the tournament. The team's goal is to make a strong impression and advance in the competition.
Key points
- Algeria's coach Djamel Belmadi aims to win the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations.
