DZWatch Exclusive: National team coach Vladimir Petkovic has emphasized that securing a spot in the 2026 World Cup is just one part of the national team’s overall ambition, with a strong showing at the upcoming African Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco also a key objective.
Speaking at a press conference held at the Miloud Hadefi Stadium, Petkovic addressed questions regarding the performance of team captain Riyad Mahrez in the recent match against Somalia. He stated that Mahrez’s performance served as the perfect response to his critics.
“Mahrez didn’t need my support,” Petkovic affirmed. “We saw his composure and presence on the field. He was in the right place at the right time. He silenced a lot of criticism, and he is used to pressure because he is a very high-level player.”
Looking ahead, Petkovic underscored the importance of the upcoming match against Uganda as a crucial step towards achieving their broader goals. “We want to win against Uganda,” he said. “We are also thinking about the future, and our goal is to show a strong face in the next African Cup in Morocco. We will evaluate the performance of each player in order to achieve this goal.”
Petkovic’s comments highlight the team’s dual focus on both World Cup qualification and a significant impact at AFCON, suggesting a long-term strategy aimed at solidifying the national team’s position on the continental and global stage. The coach’s emphasis on evaluating player performance indicates a commitment to building a squad capable of competing at the highest level in both tournaments. DZWatch will continue to provide updates on the national team’s progress.
