Algeria coach Vladimir Petkovic acknowledged the importance of the win over Equatorial Guinea in the opening match. Africa Cup of Nations Qualifiers 2025, with a score of two goals to none, and he praised the performance of his players despite the major problems of the “Greens” in the first half of the match, before recovering in the second half.
And he wonGreensToday, Thursday, September 5, they defeated the Equatorial Guinea national team with two clean goals, scored by the duo Awar and Gouiri in the 69th and 90+5th minutes, thus temporarily topping Group Five, before facing the Liberian national team on Tuesday, September 10, in the second round of the qualifiers.
Petkovic said during the press conference held after the match, in response to a question about his assessment of it: “In the first half, the pace was not high, but in the second half we raised the pace and were able to score and win the match,” adding: “Our victory is deserved after everything we presented in the second half.”
He added: “I thank the players for everything they did in the match and for scoring the important victory in such situations.” He explained: “During the first half, the opponent was good physically, but on our part, we were not at the level. We did not have many chances except for the penalty kick and another chance.”
“We made some technical changes in the second half and entered with more confidence and imposed a higher pace, as we caused big problems for the opponent with our high and intense pressure, which allowed us to create many opportunities,” he continued, before highlighting the role of the fans in the strong comeback, saying: “When we play at home, the role of the fans is always decisive in the comeback result.”
He added: “The fans of the Oran stadium played a major role and supported the players until the last moments,” before adding: “Playing in September is always difficult, because you have to find the right rhythm and this is not easy at the beginning of the season.”
“It should also be remembered that the team only had one training session with all the players before facing Equatorial Guinea,” he said. “We need some time to correct the mistakes and gain the confidence the players need.” He added: “The scenario of the Uganda match was repeated in today’s match, but I am happy that we did not concede any goals in today’s match.”
Petkovic turns focus to Liberia clash
Petkovic stressed that his focus will be on the match against Liberia next Tuesday, and stated: “We will now focus on the match against Liberia. We now have a strong group and this is what is important.” Regarding the readiness of Rayan Ait Nouri and Bennacer for the two matches, he added: “We will examine the situation of Ait Nouri, as for Bennacer, he left due to fatigue and he is not injured.”
Regarding the Oran fans’ request for Youssef Belaili to return to the national team, the Swiss coach commented: “As I said before, we have 50 players on the extended list and the national team’s door is open to everyone.” He stressed: “I will invite anyone I see capable of bringing victory to the Algerian national team.” He added: “Today we relied on these names and next time the list may change.”
