Confidence in Success: Betković Reflects on Algeria’s Bright Future and World Cup Aspirations

BY: Dr. Hana Saada

Algiers, Algeria | November 17th, 2024 — In a press conference held on Sunday evening at the “Hussein Ait Ahmed” stadium in Tizi Ouzou, Algeria’s head coach Vahid Betković reflected on the national team’s victory over Liberia, which also marked the successful conclusion of their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 qualifiers.

Betković, who took over as coach earlier this year, shared his unwavering confidence in his decision to lead the “Fennecs” and in the team’s potential for future success. He firmly stated, “I never doubted for a moment that I could succeed with the national team. From the start, I knew that the Algerian national team had a strong reputation and a solid foundation.”

Acknowledging the contributions of various individuals and officials who have supported the team, Betković expressed his gratitude, saying, “I want to extend my thanks to every person who has contributed to the success of our mission in the AFCON qualifiers.”

Betković also commended the new Tizi Ouzou stadium, calling it a “masterpiece,” and noted the exceptional atmosphere created by the passionate home crowd. “I’ve never experienced such an atmosphere in matches I’ve attended in different countries around the world,” he said.

Despite the pressure of playing their first match at this new venue, the players remained resilient. Betković reflected on the early goal conceded, describing how the team’s ability to recover and secure a victory demonstrated their mental toughness. “Conceding an early and unexpected goal could have disrupted the team, but our response and the ability to regain control is a testament to the character of these players.”

He praised several individuals, particularly Ramez Zerrouki, calling him a player of exceptional technical ability. “Zerrouki plays in a top-tier league (the Netherlands), and the fact that Feyenoord Rotterdam is interested in him is not by chance,” he remarked.

While expressing satisfaction with Riyad Mahrez’s return to form, Betković emphasized that his focus is always on collective team play rather than individual performances. “I am happy to see Mahrez regaining his form, but my priority is always on the team playing together as a unit,” he said.

Betković also noted the improvements in the defense, although he acknowledged that mistakes will always be part of football. “Our defensive line has certainly improved, but mistakes are inevitable. We cannot eliminate them entirely, as they are part of the game,” he stated.

On the subject of team selection, Betković admitted that it remains a challenge. “Selecting the best players for each match is not easy, but I strive to bring the best possible squad for each international break. Players who aren’t playing regularly with their clubs will naturally have fewer chances to be called up,” he explained.

Looking ahead to the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, Betković confirmed that the team’s preparations are already underway. “Between now and March 2025, when the World Cup qualifiers resume, I will monitor domestic league matches, though not every week. My assistant, Nabil Neghiz, will keep a close eye on local players. If necessary, I will travel abroad to assess the conditions and performances of our overseas players,” he added.

Betković ended on a strong note, reaffirming the team’s long-term goals. “We’ve completed the AFCON qualifiers with success, but our ultimate focus now is on qualifying for the 2026 World Cup. We will not rest until we achieve that goal,” he concluded.

With Betković’s strong leadership and a team determined to succeed, Algeria’s future in international football looks bright as they continue to prepare for the challenges ahead.

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