Algiers – National team coach Vladimir Petkovic is entering the crucial phase of preparations for Algeria’s opening match against Sudan in the Africa Cup of Nations. His primary objective is securing a victory and avoiding the setbacks that plagued the team in the previous two editions, where they drew against Angola and Sierra Leone.
Petkovic initiated tactical work with the first dedicated session on Tuesday evening, following confirmation of the players’ physical readiness. He has implemented a flexible training program that considers each player’s individual condition. The squad was divided into two groups during Tuesday morning’s session before returning to a single daily session, emphasizing team cohesion and implementing the tactical plan for Wednesday’s match.
The national team’s training camp will conclude today with a final session at the Sidi Moussa center. The team will then depart on Friday after Friday prayers to the official tournament residence. The team, led by captain Riyad Mahrez, will hold their first training session at the venue on Saturday evening, starting at 5 PM, as confirmed by Petkovic during a press conference at the Nelson Mandela Stadium.
Tactical Stability Supported by Numbers
The national coach seems to favor maintaining a stable starting lineup, an approach that characterized the team’s journey in the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. Statistics reflect this clear trend. Data suggests a potential reliance on the 3-4-3 or 3-5-2 formations, particularly given the frequent appearances of the defensive trio of Tougai, Mandi, and Bensebaini, who have accumulated the most playing time. Tougai and Mandi each played the full 540 minutes across six matches, while Bensebaini played 495 minutes. Defensive midfielder Ramiz Zerrouki also stood out with 431 minutes, capitalizing on the absence of Ismael Bennacer and the incomplete fitness of Boudaoui in recent training camps, solidifying his place as a key player.
