AFCON 2019 – Paul Put: “We need to be at 200% to win”

Algeria will face Guinea in a highly anticipated round of 16 clash at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations, a fixture that poses an intriguing challenge for the Fennecs. Guinea, often considered a bogey team for Algeria in past encounters, enters the match with mixed form, having advanced to the knockout stages as one of the best third-placed teams. While the Syli National has shown flashes of quality, their performances in the group stage have left some doubts about their ability to progress further in the tournament.

Guinea coach Paul Put is aware of the difficulties ahead and has highlighted the areas his team needs to improve. “We have a lot of quality in the team, I saw the team grow during the AFCON. We didn’t score many goals but we created many opportunities; we need to be more clinical,” Put explained. The Guinea coach recognizes that while his players have shown promise, they must capitalize on their chances if they hope to challenge a formidable Algerian side.

Algeria, under the guidance of Djamel Belmadi, has arguably been the standout team of the tournament so far, impressing observers with their tactical discipline, cohesive play, and attacking efficiency. Paul Put openly acknowledged the difference in quality between the two sides. “There’s a big difference between the FIFA rankings and reality. Algeria is better than us; they play modern football,” he noted. Despite the challenge, Put praised both Algeria’s coach and players for their determination and organization, admitting that his own team will need to perform at their absolute best. “I congratulate Belmadi because I know it’s not easy to work in Algeria. But the players also play with great determination. We know we have to be at 200% to win,” he added.

The Guinean coach also reflected on the recent performances of other teams in the tournament, noting Algeria’s consistency and the surprises caused by other nations. “Benin put in a very good performance, but we have a different way of preparing for the match,” Put said, emphasizing the need for his team to focus on their own game plan rather than being distracted by the exploits of other sides.

Regarding tactical strengths and weaknesses, Put was cautious in his assessment. When asked about Algeria’s key advantages, he admitted, “I don’t have my tactical chart with me,” highlighting the unpredictable nature of knockout football. He did, however, express confidence in Guinea’s defensive organization, stating, “I don’t think we have a problem in defense. We’ve conceded goals from set pieces,” suggesting that while the Syli National is capable of keeping Algeria at bay, discipline and focus will be essential.

Sunday’s match at the 30 June Stadium in Cairo represents a significant test for both sides. Guinea must overcome Algeria’s superior technical quality and tactical cohesion to advance, while the Fennecs are determined to maintain their flawless tournament form and prove that their group-stage performances were no fluke. With high stakes and knockout intensity, this encounter promises to be a compelling battle between ambition, skill, and strategic preparation.