BY: Hana Saada
ALGIERS- In a press conference held at the Bouaké Peace Stadium in Côte d’Ivoire on Monday, Algeria’s national team coach, Djamel Belmadi, discussed various aspects, including concerns about refereeing decisions and the crucial match against Mauritania scheduled for Tuesday.
Refereeing Concerns and VAR Absence:
Addressing the officiating challenges faced by the Algerian team in the first two matches and the absence of VAR (Video Assistant Referee), Belmadi expressed his unease: “VAR should have been consulted three times during the Burkina Faso match, but it wasn’t done, and that worries me. Refereeing decisions can make a difference in closely contested matches like the one against Burkina Faso… Everyone must take responsibility, and players need to stay focused on the field,” he emphasized.
Anticipation of the Match Against Mauritania:
Belmadi then shifted his focus to the upcoming match against Mauritania, acknowledging its decisive nature for both teams. He stated, “We have worked a lot, especially on the physical and psychological aspects, so we will be confident for this match. We will try to correct the mistakes from the first two matches and move forward to win this game and, why not, qualify in the top position.”
Leadership and Team Dynamics:
Responding to questions about the absence of key players like Bennacer and Bensebaïni, Belmadi acknowledged it as a loss for the team but expressed confidence in the high-level replacements available. Regarding the team’s chances of qualification, he said, “We are not in the same situation as during AFCON 2021. We embrace pressure, and those who cannot handle it have no place in football. We are aware that a fierce battle awaits us tomorrow, but we are calm.”
Defending Captain Mahrez:
When questioned about Riyad Mahrez’s performance, the team coach staunchly defended his captain: “I don’t want people to forget what Mahrez is capable of. Okay, these weren’t his two best matches for the national team, but don’t write him off too quickly. Whether he starts or is on the bench is not the most important thing. He remains our captain; he has always played under pressure, and I have complete confidence in him.”
Future and Winning Mentality:
On inquiries about his future with the national team, Belmadi chose not to comment, stating, “God willing, we will win tomorrow.”
Aouar’s Confidence:
Attacker Houssem Aouar, present at the conference, echoed confidence for the Mauritania match: “I am ready to help the team, and all the players are. We have no psychological problems, and we have prepared well for this competition.”
Support for Mahrez:
Aouar also commented on Riyad Mahrez’s state, saying, “Mahrez is a player with great experience; he remains calm and hardworking. We have confidence in our captain.”
The press conference provided insights into the team’s mindset, challenges, and determination as they prepare for a pivotal match in the ongoing competition.
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