Algeria’s ‘A’ national team coach, Madjid Bouguera, has stated that the upcoming match against Iraq will be an ‘enjoyable’ encounter. He praised the Iraqi team’s high level of performance throughout the tournament thus far, noting their consistency.
Speaking at the pre-match press conference, Bouguera emphasized the importance of the final group stage game. “Matches in the last round of the group stage are usually intense,” he said. “They offer a valuable opportunity to prepare for the quarter-finals. This match could serve as a crucial benchmark for us.”
Addressing the challenge of containing Iraq’s attacking prowess, Bouguera commented, “We know the Iraqi team well. They are one of the strongest teams in Asia and possess significant capabilities. We have analyzed their performance, and we will play to win and reach the final. To achieve that, you have to face strong teams and overcome them, and we are fully aware of what awaits us.”
When questioned about Iraq’s strengths and weaknesses, Bouguera explained, “What makes this tournament special is the diversity of footballing styles. Consequently, preparations differ from match to match. Of course, I won’t reveal specific details about Iraq’s weaknesses or strengths, but their strong desire to win is certainly one of their key assets.”
Regarding the pressure ahead of the crucial match, Bouguera affirmed, “The Algerian fans are used to demanding victory, and this pressure is positive for us. We are accustomed to dealing with it.” Bouguera expressed confidence in his team’s ability to perform under pressure. He also highlighted the importance of maintaining focus and executing the game plan effectively.
