AFCON 2025:Vladimir Petković insists Algeria “will show a good level” ahead of major challenges

Vladimir Petković expressed firm belief in Algeria’s potential ahead of a defining period for the national team, highlighting both the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco and the 2026 World Cup, where the Fennecs will face Argentina, Austria, and Jordan.

The Algeria coach laid out his vision with clarity, stressing ambition, realism, and total trust in his group.

Petković addressed the World Cup first and said he feels “very pleased” to guide Algeria into a tournament he described as “perfectly organized and filled with strong, experienced teams.”

He noted that the draw gives Algeria “three opponents with tremendous quality and global reputation,” but insisted that his side sees “real opportunities to win and develop from one match to the next.”

He stated openly that Argentina carries the role of favourites, while Austria brings “a fast, structured and physically powerful approach.”

He also highlighted Jordan as “a surprise team that nobody should underestimate.”

Before turning to the World Cup, Petković placed full attention on the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

He chose honesty over bold predictions and said, “I’m not guaranteeing anything, but the team will play well at the AFCON and will collect good results.”

He underlined his commitment to identity and consistency, adding, “We want to show our football and compete to win every match.”

The coach praised the players’ dedication and insisted on balanced judgment: “I never evaluate things from zero to one hundred or in extremes.”

He repeated that the national team remains open to all eligible players and that his responsibility is to build “a group of 23 to 26 players that represents the best possible squad.”

Speaking about Riyad Mahrez, Petković rejected the idea of dependence on the captain: “Many players operate at the same level as Mahrez, but it’s normal that people focus more on him because of everything he has given Algeria.”

On Zerrouki, often criticised in recent months, he remained direct: “Zerrouki shows top professionalism and holds a significant place in our team.”

Petković closed with a call for unity and reminded supporters and media of their collective influence: “Only together — the people, the journalists and the football community — can we achieve great things. If we divide ourselves, progress becomes much harder.”

As the AFCON countdown enters its final stage, his message resonates with determination: hard work, pride, togetherness, and the desire to push Algeria back toward the highest levels of African and global football.