Algeria's national team coach, Vladimir Petkovic, has expressed his profound gratitude for the presidential congratulations received following the team's qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. He emphasized that this gesture serves as a powerful source of pride and motivation for both himself and the players as they prepare for the upcoming tournament.Speaking at a press conference held at the Miloud Hadefi Stadium in Oran, Petkovic stated, “The President’s congratulations motivate us immensely. It is a recognition of the efforts we have all made to achieve this historic qualification.” He highlighted the significance of such high-level acknowledgment in boosting the team’s morale and reinforcing their commitment to representing Algeria on the world stage.
Despite securing their place in the World Cup finals, Petkovic stressed the importance of their upcoming match against Uganda. “The match against Uganda is very important because every match is an opportunity to collect points and improve performance,” he explained. He emphasized that they wouldn’t be complacent and would approach the game with the same level of dedication and focus.
“I will carefully assess the condition of the players before determining the lineup for the match, and I will choose the group capable of achieving victory,” Petkovic added, indicating his commitment to fielding a strong and competitive team regardless of their qualification status. He aims to use the remaining matches to fine-tune their strategies and build momentum for the World Cup.
During the press conference, which lasted over 90 minutes, Petkovic delved into the details of his player selection choices. He revealed that he had deliberately rested certain players who were at risk of suspension to ensure their availability for future matches. This strategic decision was particularly relevant for players carrying yellow cards, aiming to prevent unnecessary absences later on in the qualifying campaign.
Petkovic’s comments reflect a clear understanding of the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. He recognizes the importance of maintaining a competitive edge, fostering team cohesion, and making strategic decisions to maximize their chances of success at the 2026 World Cup. The presidential congratulations have undoubtedly provided a significant boost to the team’s morale, fueling their ambition to make Algeria proud on the global stage. The focus now shifts to preparing diligently for the remaining matches and ensuring that they are in peak form when the World Cup kicks off.
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Written by Noor Eleslam
